Keep Vulnerable Communities Connected

More than 80 groups representing a coalition of public interest, civil rights, faith-based, media justice and community organizations sent a letter urging the House and Senate Commerce Committees to continue their support of the government’s Lifeline program, which subsidizes basic phone service for low-income individuals.

The coalition sent the letter on Sept 12 as part of Lifeline Awareness Week. The letter notes that Lifeline enables vulnerable populations — veterans, seniors, the disabled, rural residents, people of color and struggling families — to more meaningfully participate in our society by gaining access to economic opportunities and critical emergency services. “People need affordable communications services to connect to the outside world for job opportunities, medical services, educational advancement, and civic participation,” the coalition’s letter states.