Mediacom helps close digital divide for local students

HARRISBURG - To close the digital gap for local K-12 students in Harrisburg and Eldorado, Mediacom Communication's Connect2Compete (C2C) program recently helped 28 student families gain low-cost, high-speed internet service. More student families can still be connected to ensure that their students can access online learning from home.

Parents and students have faced new challenges as school districts moved to incorporate remote learning as part of curriculum delivery during a year marked by the unprecedented coronavirus pandemic. A growing number of families are participating in Mediacom's Connect2Compete (C2C) program which helps income-challenged families connect to low-cost home internet service. Currently, 28 student families in Harrisburg and Eldorado use C2C internet to meet online needs for their children's education.

"School leaders face difficult decisions as they work to keep students and teachers safe, while also ensuring equity so that all students continue to learn," said Mediacom's Director of Area Operations Joe DiJulio. "Remote learning can be a great solution when students have access to reliable and affordable internet service at home."

Connect2Compete is available in all areas where Mediacom delivers broadband service. The main criterion for eligibility is that at least one child in the household qualifies for the free or reduced-price school lunch program. The flat-fee cost for a C2C internet subscription is $9.95 per month. Mediacom waives fees associated with installation and modem rental. Participants are not required to sign a contract or pay a deposit.

"Mediacom made a commitment to invest company resources to help low-income families gain the connectivity they need to support their children's education," DiJulio said. "Today, in a COVID-19 world, a connection to our fiber-based network is more essential than ever, and our broadband technicians take pride in every installation that brings Connect2Compete to local students in Harrisburg, Eldorado and elsewhere."

In Illinois communities where Mediacom is a broadband provider, approximately 1,500 families benefit from the subsidized educational internet program. An online site provides information and a sign-up form: mediacomc2c.com Families can also sign-up by calling C2C service representatives: (855) 904-2225.