Have you ever imagined what would happen if you lost your home or faced the risk of homelessness? This could happen for many reasons: you might lose your job or faced an unexpectedly large medical bill. Regardless of why, homelessness is scary. But if you do find yourself out on the street, one of the most important things is to stay positive and not despair. Just remember, there are always resources available to help you during this difficult time. To get back on your feet during such a tough time, one crucial thing is to make sure you stay connected.
Think about this: if you’ve lost your job and are desperate to find another, being able to access the internet can alert you on who and where are hiring. In this blog post, we’ll walk you along the steps to take advantage of two government assistance programs that will allow you to stay connected with a free government phone for the homeless affordable to no cost. You will realize there are plenty of resources out there to help you survive and recover from homelessness.
Why Having Mobile Phone Service is Important for Homeless
As we mentioned, having access to mobile phones and data connections can provide homeless individuals with a lifeline to essential services and opportunities. So before we go into how you can get free internet, let’s first look at some of the reasons why this is so important.
Communication
Mobile and internet connections allow homeless individuals to stay in touch with family and friends, who can provide emotional support and help prevent isolation.
Job Search
Many employers and employment agencies communicate with potential hires via phone or email. Having a cell phone with proper internet connection allows homeless individuals to be contacted by potential employers and respond promptly, increasing their chances of securing employment.
Also, smartphones can be used to store important documents, such as identification, resumes, and contact information. This can be valuable when applying for jobs or seeking assistance.
Access to Services
Homeless individuals can use the internet connection to access information about available shelters, food services, healthcare facilities, and other essential resources in their area.
Connectivity and Information
Mobile phones and the internet provide a means for homeless individuals to stay informed about news, weather updates, and local events. This information can be crucial for their safety and well-being.
Healthcare Access
Some health services and appointments may be scheduled or confirmed via phone. Having a cell phone allows homeless individuals to stay connected with healthcare providers and receive important health-related information.
Navigation
GPS and map applications on smartphones can help homeless individuals navigate unfamiliar areas, find services, and locate resources like food banks, shelters, and medical facilities.
So that now we’ve explained why mobile phones and data are beneficial for homeless individuals, why doesn’t everyone have them? Well, smartphones and internet connections are expensive and obviously, not everyone experiencing homelessness has the means to own or maintain them. And this is why we have government programs that provide free or subsidized phones and services to those in need.
Lifeline Program: Free Landline or Free Cell Phone Service
To clarify, the government doesn’t give out free mobile phones. What it has done is set up programs that offer free mobile and data services to eligible individuals. And when you apply for these programs through companies like EASY Wireless, you may get additional benefits such as a free smartphone if you live in certain states.
The first of these programs that you should know about is the Lifeline assistance program, which provides low-cost landline or cell phone service for Americans with low incomes. If you are currently receiving benefits from another government program, such as Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), there is a good chance that you will qualify.
Lifeline also offers discounted broadband internet service in some areas. Ask your phone company about affordable high-speed internet plans for your home. They may offer heavily discounted internet for Lifeline subscribers.
Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP)
The next one is the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP). The ACP, formerly known as the Emergency Broadband Benefit, is a Federal Communications Commission (FCC) program that provides monthly discounts on internet service and devices for qualifying low-income households. If you are a veteran, a person with a disability, or a recipient of certain government benefits, you may be eligible for the ACP.
If eligible, the ACP will provide you with a discount of up to $30 per month for broadband service and up to $75 per month for households on Tribal lands. The program also provides a one-time discount of up to $100 on a laptop, desktop computer, or tablet purchased with a participating provider.
Eligibility Criteria for Free Phone Programs
Some of the above programs require that you meet certain eligibility criteria. The common requirements are:
Low income
Most programs are aimed at those with limited means. You will need to provide proof of participation in government assistance programs, such as Medicaid, SNAP (commonly known as food stamps), Supplemental Security Income (SSI), Federal Public Housing Assistance, Veterans Pension and Survivors Benefit, or Tribal Programs.
Location
Where you live can also affects your eligibility. Programs like Lifeline’s Tribal Lands program are only available to those living on federally recognized Tribal lands. Some state-specific programs may also have location requirements.
Disability
Having a disability qualifies you for certain specialized free programs like iCanConnect. You will need to provide documentation from a medical professional certifying your disability.
Veteran status
Veterans and active military members may qualify for additional free phone program benefits. You will need to provide documents proving your veteran or military status.
Lack of access to connectivity
Some programs aim to provide phone service to those who currently lack access to basic communication. You may need to certify that you do not have landline or wireless phone service to qualify.
How To Get a FREE Smartphone, FREE Unlimited Data, and More..
EASY Wireless is dedicated to providing more and more Americans with access to FREE connectivity, and to connect people to their loved ones, essential resources, and potential employers. If you qualify for ACP, here’s what you’ll receive:
EASY Wireless Unlimited Plan
- FREE Unlimited Data
- FREE Unlimited Talk
- FREE Unlimited Text
- FREE SIM Card Kit and Activation
- Choose to Keep Your Number or Get a New One
Those residing in qualifying areas will even receive free cell phones!
Are You Eligible For The ACP?
There are two ways you can qualify for ACP: either by your household income level or by taking part in certain government programs.
You can qualify for the ACP if you’ve participated in government assistance programs such as the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), Medicaid, Supplemental Security Income (SSI), or Federal Public Housing Assistance (FPHA)
The second criteria is your income level. You may qualify if your income is under the amounts on the chart below.
How do I Apply For EASY Wireless Benefits?
When you come to one of EASY Wireless’s retail stores, our customer service agent will help you apply for the benefits.
The first step is to provide proof of identity with a government-issued ID. This is so you can confirm your participation in one of the qualifying programs or that you meet the household income requirement.
Then you have to show documents to prove that you are taking part in a government assistance program or use them as proof of active benefits.
It’s an easy process that will only take you minutes. So don’t wait and apply today to give your life a new start!
