Children who qualify for the reduced lunch program can also get a computer and cheap internet access, if they live someplace that has Comcast!

As a student, having the Internet is pretty much essential these days. While a student may be able to get by with getting their information from books and writing essays by hand, lack of computer access puts them at a huge disadvantage. There are even times when a computer is needed to do work.

Accommodations are certainly made for those who are unable to access the internet, but again, it alienates the students and puts them at a distinct disadvantage.

Comcast, the United States' largest Internet provider, and the Khan Academy, a "not-for-profit with the goal of changing education for the better by providing a free world-class education for anyone anywhere," have teamed up to bring the Internet to as many people as possible with a program called "Internet Essentials."

If a student receives free lunch and lives in a place where Comcast offers internet service, he or she is eligible for the Internet Essentials program. The program offers internet service for $9.95, a $150 computer upon signup, and free Internet training. The price is also guaranteed to never go up, and there are no activation or equipment rental fees.

(Source)