Alphabet’s Google Fiber (Nasdaq: GOOG), the Goog’s fast-developing, super-fast broadband and cable service, is a gift. Free, gratis. The company on Wednesday announced it would provide access to low-income families. That’s access to the Internet that, in the words of Dennis Kish, Vice President, Google Fiber, “can mean the difference between thriving or falling behind. It can mean more children using computers in after-school programs and STEM classes, more students going online to finish their homework, more people taking advantage of resources like Khan Academy, and more families learning basic computer skills that help them be more connected.”
Last year, Kish noted in his blog announcement, Google Fiber partnered with ConnectHome, an initiative by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and the White House to accelerate Internet adoption by families with school-age children in public housing. Last week, Google said it will be bringing gigabit Internet service to residents in all public housing properties that we connect with Google Fiber. Families in these properties will be able to access some of the fastest speeds, at no cost to the housing authority or to residents. Continue reading
Working with the Housing Authority of Kansas City, Google last week launched a program at West Bluff, the first property to receive gigabit Internet as a part of this program. “We’ve wired all 100 homes with Fiber, and families can sign up today to access the Internet at up to 1,000 Mbps. And through local ConnectHome partners, such as Connecting for Good and Surplus Exchange, they’ll also be able to purchase discounted devices and learn new computer skills. Across Kansas City, we’re working with local affordable housing providers to connect up to nine properties, reaching more than 1,300 families in the metro area.”
Google has already laid extensive fiber trails through the country and abroad. Kansas City is one of 11 U.S. markets where the company is debuting its fiber product. Share of GOOG closed down $24.55 or 3.45 percent Friday at $683.57.
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