PROCESS and ELIGIBILITY

The PHLConnectED program prioritizes families with the greatest need for internet service. We will focus on connecting K–12 families who:

• Do not have any internet access.

• Have only mobile phone internet access.

• Are homeless or housing-insecure.

• Have students who participate in remote learning in locations without internet access (outside of the primary household).

• The program’s eligibility has expanded. You may be eligible if you have internet in your home and participate in public benefit programs with income qualifications.

• Your child is an English Learner.

• Your child receives special education services.

Eligible households will be identified through data gathered by the Philadelphia School District of Philadelphia, the Charter Schools Office, and internet service providers. The school district or schools will reach out to these households through direct mail, email, robocalls, or text message.

Which public benefits allow me to qualify under expanded eligibility?

If you or anyone in your K-12 household is using or has used any of the following benefits in the last 6 months, your K-12 household is eligible for PHLConnectED:

• Medicaid

• Public housing assistance/PHL Rental Assist

• SNAP

• TANF

• SSI

• Head Start

• LIHEAP

• WIC

You do not need to submit any documentation to demonstrate using any of these benefits.

PHLConnected 211 Hotline

The City has partnered with United Way of Greater Philadelphia to create the PHLConnectED 211 hotline.

Open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week • Available in over 150 languages

When calling, dial 2-1-1 and press option 1. You will be connected with a resource navigator. Families can expect a brief survey to help 211 resource navigators understand their needs.

The 211 hotline can:

• Provide basic information about PHLConnectED to families.

• Pre-screen callers for eligibility.

• Route them to the right school number to get a Comcast enrollment code or T-Mobile hotspot.

• Follow up to confirm that connectivity happened.

• Refer them for additional support if they need technical assistance or other supportive assistance.