Resources
Technology
The list below provides ideas and some free options for families who do not have Internet access at home. The list is not an endorsement of the service/product offered and we encourage you to review the service terms and conditions.
Comcast Internet Essentials Program
Comcast announced it will be increasing speeds for the Internet Essentials program, and making the program free to new customers for two months, amid the coronavirus outbreak.
Until further notice, all Xfinity WiFi Public Hotspots are now open to everyone on the “xfinitywifi” SSID. Public hotspots can be found in small/medium businesses and outdoors in commercial areas. Non-Xfinity subscribers need to accept Terms and Conditions to access the network and repeat when requested to continue to receive free unlimited access. Please refer to the map below for available public hotspots.
This site and app will show you public hotspots nearby. Some of the businesses may be closed due to the quarantine, but they may continue to provide WiFi service from their parking lots.
Emergency Broadband Benefit Program (EBB)
On April 29, 2021, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) announced that the Emergency Broadband Benefit Program (EBB Program) will launch on May 12, 2021. At this time, consumers can apply for the program through the National Verifier at GetEmergencyBroadband.org and service providers can begin enrolling consumers in the National Lifeline Accountability Database (NLAD) who qualified through the National Verifier or through an alternative verification process (AVP), or who opted into the program from Lifeline.
FCC Information Release: https://www.fcc.gov/broadbandbenefit
What is the EBB? https://getemergencybroadband.org/
Who Qualifies? https://getemergencybroadband.org/do-i-qualify/
Participating Providers in PA: https://www.fcc.gov/emergency-broadband-benefit-providers#Pennsylvania
Family Wellness
Talking to Your Child About the Coronavirus:
Managing Anxiety & Stress:
Mental Health Warmline - Toll-free, 24/7 at 1-855-284-2494
24/7 mental health and crisis support line for people dealing with anxiety or other difficult emotions. Callers will be able to speak with staff who are trained in trauma-informed principles and will listen, assess the person’s needs, triage, and refer to other local supports and professionals as needed. View this video.
York County Resources:
Prepared York - A compiled list of various constituencies on resources available to you in your place of business, your employment status, and day to day lives.
York County Families in Need - A group of York business owners launched an effort to offer meals and food (delivered if needed) to help students, elderly, and families during the closure.
Where to reach Pennsylvania government services while practicing social distancing - Provided by York County Human Services (scroll to the middle of the webpage for the list)