A new federal program now enables low-income households to receive discounted or free broadband service.

Included in the federal infrastructure bill, the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) provides a monthly credit of $30 to eligible participants. United Way of Johnson and Washington Counties consider the broadband benefit provided by United States Taxpayers to be a key tool to support healthier families, and the organization is collaborating with Mediacom Communications to expand awareness so that more local residents will get connected and stay connected to high-speed internet service.

The Federal Communications Commission awards the monthly ACP credit to families with income at 200% of the federal poverty guideline or lower, and to those who qualify for other forms of government assistance.

Mediacom announced that nearly 7,000 Iowa households are participating and the service is available in more than 320 Iowa communities. To confirm eligibility call toll-free to 855-330-6918.