How to Secure Free Internet Access: 7 Charities Making It Possible
Introduction
In today's digital age, internet access is no longer a luxury, it's a necessity. From education and employment to healthcare and communication, being online is integral to daily life. However, millions of individuals and families worldwide still lack reliable internet access due to financial constraints. The good news? Numerous charities and nonprofit organizations are stepping up to bridge this digital divide by offering free or low-cost internet services.
In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore seven commendable charities making free internet access a reality for underserved communities. Whether you're a student, senior, or low-income household, these organizations might have a solution tailored for you.
1. EveryoneOn
Overview: EveryoneOn is a nonprofit dedicated to connecting low-income families to affordable internet services and computers. Since its inception, the organization has connected over 2 million people to the internet and provided more than 10,000 computers to those in need.
Services Offered:
- Low-cost internet service plans
- Affordable computers and devices
- Digital literacy training programs
Eligibility: Households participating in government assistance programs like SNAP, Medicaid, or the National School Lunch Program.
Learn More: EveryoneOn
2. Compudopt
Overview: Compudopt is a national nonprofit organization focused on providing technology access and education to under-resourced youth and their communities. They've empowered hundreds of thousands across 57+ cities and 24+ states.
Services Offered:
- Free computers and devices
- Digital literacy training
- Free high-speed internet access in partnership with local ISPs
Eligibility: Low-income families and students without access to technology.
Learn More: Compudopt
3. DigitalC
Overview: Based in Cleveland, DigitalC is a nonprofit organization aiming to bridge the digital divide by providing affordable internet access to underserved communities. As of early April 2025, they've connected their 4,000th home to their wireless internet service, Canopy.
Services Offered:
- Affordable home internet service
- Community outreach and digital literacy programs
Eligibility: Residents of Cleveland's underserved neighborhoods.
Learn More: DigitalC
4. Mobile Beacon
Overview: Mobile Beacon provides affordable, high-speed internet access to nonprofit organizations, schools, and libraries. Their mission is to ensure that these institutions can offer internet services to the communities they serve.
Services Offered:
- Unlimited 4G and 5G internet service for $10/month
- Mobile hotspots and routers
- Hotspot donation programs in partnership with TechSoup
Eligibility: Nonprofit organizations, schools, and libraries.
Learn More: Mobile Beacon
5. Synergy Charity Services
Overview: Synergy Charity Services offers grants to low-income families to help offset the cost of internet services. Funded through donations, these grants are issued on a first-come, first-served basis until funds are exhausted.
Services Offered:
- Grants to cover internet service costs
- Partnerships with various internet service providers
Eligibility: Low-income families; specific eligibility criteria may vary.
Learn More: HighSpeedInternet.com
6. GiveInternet.org
Overview: GiveInternet.org is a platform that allows individuals to sponsor internet access, laptops, and educational resources for underprivileged students. Their mission is to provide young people with the tools they need to thrive in a digital world.
Services Offered:
- Sponsorship of internet access and devices for students
- Educational resources and support
Eligibility: Underprivileged students in need of internet access and educational tools.
Learn More: GiveInternet.org
7. T-Mobile's Project 10Million
Overview: T-Mobile's Project 10Million aims to provide free internet access to eligible student households to help bridge the homework gap. The initiative offers free hotspots and data plans to students across the U.S.
Services Offered:
- Free hotspot device with 200GB of data per year for five years
- Access to affordable devices for hybrid learning
Eligibility: Students (K-12) eligible for the National School Lunch Program or other government assistance programs.
Learn More: Project 10Million
Comparative Overview