Rogers, Videotron expand low-income Internet

Nov. 17, 2018
Rogers Communications (TSX:RCI.A) and Videotron have joined Connecting Families, a federal low-income Internet adoption program ...

Rogers Communications (TSX:RCI.A) and Videotron have joined Connecting Families, a federal low-income Internet adoption program launched by the Canadian government.

Announced earlier this year by Innovation, Science and Development Minister Navdeep Bains, Connecting Families offers 10 Mbps downstream speed, 100 GB of data, free installation, and modem rental for $9.99 per month + taxes. No contract or credit check is required upon signup.

The program is intended to provide hundreds of thousands of Canadians with low-cost Internet access and distribute up to 50,000 computers to eligible families under the Computers for Excellence program. The government of Canada is currently sending a mailing to eligible households with an access code that recipients can use to subscribe to high-speed Internet plans from participating ISPs via a secure online portal.

"The Internet opens up a world of possibilities that all Canadians should be able to access - it's critical to our country's success in today's digital economy. We're proud to be participating in this new initiative to expand Internet access as part of our ongoing efforts to bridge the digital divide," said Peter King, senior director, Corporate Social Responsibility, Rogers Communications.

In 2013, Rogers launched a similar program of its own, Connected for Success, offering high-speed Internet to tenants in participating rent-geared-to-income and subsidized properties. Today, the MSO has 280 housing partners across its footprint in Ontario, New Brunswick and Newfoundland and more than 200,000 households are eligible.

"We are happy to see the major players in telecom come together around a shared goal: improved Internet access for low-income families," said Manon Brouillette, president and CEO of Videotron. "Because of this initiative, many kids will be able to access content, knowledge and digital tools to support their development. In today's plugged-in world, being connected can make all the difference. True to its commitment to innovation and its deep roots in the community, Videotron is proud to contribute to this program and help give these families the best possible experience."