The advancement of technology has made it possible for individuals from all walks of life to access information, communicate, and learn from the comfort of their homes. Nonetheless, only a few possess the financial strength to procure these indispensable gadgets.
For low-income families, owning a tablet like an iPad can seem like an impossible dream. Today, we will discuss ways to obtain a free iPad for low-income families, breaking down different programs and initiatives that come with this opportunity.
By the end of this article, families who were previously unable to access this technology will be able to take advantage of the many benefits that come with owning an iPad.
How To Get Free iPad For Low-Income Families
Currently, different types of organizations offer free technologies to people unable to afford them. You have government initiatives for people from all walks of life, non-profit organizations with specific categories, and School programs for students.
Government Programs for Low-Income Families
With the Covid pandemic, when jobs and education are moving online, the government is trying to keep low-income people in demand. Thus, multiple government programs offer free laptops, free Tablet with Medicaid, and mobile phones. Let’s have a look at a few of them –
E-Rate Program
The E-Rate program is a government-funded initiative designed to help schools and libraries access affordable internet services. The program provides discounts to eligible institutions, allowing them to improve their access to technology and information.
Through the E-Rate program, schools and libraries can access a range of educational resources, including free iPads and internet access.
This helps to ensure that students and library patrons have the tools they need to learn, research, and stay informed in today’s digital age.
How it works: Schools and libraries that qualify for the program submit a application for the internet services they need. The government then reviews the request and provides qualified institutions with a discount on the cost of the internet services and resources they need.
Lifeline Program
Lifeline is a federal assistance program in the US that provides discounted phone and internet services to low-income households. The program is designed to help low-income families stay connected and access important resources online.
In addition to providing discounted internet prices, Lifeline also offers a one-time discount on any eligible device that you purchase, including iPads. This allows families to access the internet and other resources on-the-go, providing them with greater flexibility and convenience in their daily lives.
Here’s how it works:
Eligibility: To qualify for Lifeline, one must participate in federal assistance programs, such as Medicaid, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), and so on, or have a household income at or below 135% of the federal poverty line.
Enrollment: Qualified consumers need to contact an eligible telecommunications company participating in the Lifeline program and provide proof of eligibility.
Discounts: Once enrolled, the household will receive discounts on their monthly phone or internet bill. The discount rate fluctuates depending on the location and the service supplier. Besides, eligible consumers also receive a one-time discount on modern devices, like – mobile phones, laptops, computers, and tablets.
Usage: You can use the service for voice, text, and data services, and the household can choose either a standalone phone or a bundled internet and phone package.
Affordable Connectivity Program
The Emergency Broadband Benefit (EBB) program was initiated by the US government in response to the Covid-19 pandemic. The program aimed to provide affordable internet access to individuals and communities who otherwise may not have access due to financial or other constraints.
Even after the pandemic, the program continued under a different name, the Affordable Connectivity Program. Like the Lifeline program, the Affordable Connectivity Program aims to provide affordable internet access to low-income families and individuals, helping to bridge the digital divide and ensure that everyone has access to the tools and resources they need to succeed in today’s digital age.
Through the program, eligible households can receive discounts on their monthly internet bills, as well as other benefits such as discounts on devices like laptops or tablets. To qualify for the program, households must meet certain income requirements or be enrolled in certain government assistance programs.
It works by partnering with internet service providers and local organizations to offer discounted or subsidized internet plans to eligible households. The eligibility criteria, such as income level or location, may vary based on the specific program.
Eligible households can get discounts of up to $30 per month on internet services with participating providers or free assistance with one of 20 government-partnered providers offering 100 Mb per second download speeds for $30 or less per month.
To qualify, households must have income below 200% of Federal Poverty Guidelines, and at least one household member must be participating in a federal assistance program or a low-income internet program. You can sign up online, by mail, or through their Lifeline or low-income broadband provider.
Non-Profit Organizations
1. Little Bear Gives
Little Bear Gives is a non-profit organization that provides free iPads to needy children. The organization provides iPads to children who are facing financial hardship, have a disability, or are in foster care.
The iPads are pre-loaded with educational and therapeutic apps, allowing children to access educational resources, communicate with their families and carers, and engage in therapeutic activities.
It also provides support and training to families and carers to help them make the most of the technology. Little Bear Gives relies on donations from individuals, businesses, and other organizations to fund its work and provide iPads to needy children.
2. Different Needz Foundation
The Different Needz Foundation is a non-profit organization that provides individuals with disabilities and special needs with access to technology and assistive devices to enhance their quality of life. As part of their assistive technology program, they offer free iPads to help individuals with disabilities stay connected and access educational and entertainment resources.
The foundation is dedicated to making technology accessible to all, regardless of financial or physical limitations. They work with families and individuals to assess their needs and provide the appropriate technology and devices to meet those needs. They also provide ongoing support and training to ensure that the devices are used to their full potential.
In addition to providing iPads, the Different Needz Foundation offers a range of other assistive technology solutions, including adaptive computer equipment, communication devices, and sensory equipment. They work closely with individuals, families, and healthcare professionals to ensure that each person receives the technology and support they need to thrive.
3. iTaalk Foundation
The iTaalk Foundation offers accessible technology, including iPads, to children with disabilities from low-income families. With the aim of promoting equal access to technology and education and enhancing the quality of life for individuals with disabilities, the organization runs in every sector.
The foundation works with schools, therapy centers, and other organizations to provide technology resources to those who need them most. The iTaalk Foundation is dedicated to improving the lives of children with disabilities and helping them reach their full potential through technology.
4. AbleNet
AbleNet is a company that is dedicated to developing and providing assistive technology solutions to meet the needs of individuals with disabilities. They have built a reputation for their unceasing efforts in this field, offering a range of products and services that help people with disabilities participate fully in their communities.
AbleNet not only offers assistive technology solutions for individuals with disabilities but also provides comprehensive training and support services to help them maximize their potential.
Its ultimate goal is to foster a society where people with disabilities can fully participate in education, employment, and daily living activities with the same level of independence as those without disabilities.
5. Computers with Causes
Computers with Causes is a non-profit organization that is committed to helping individuals in need by providing them with access to technology. Among its various initiatives, the organization also provides laptops, computers, and tablets to college students who are in need of assistance. It is possible to get a free iPad through this program.
The organization recognizes that access to technology is critical to academic success, particularly for students pursuing a college degree. Many college courses require the use of a computer, and access to the internet is often essential for research, collaboration, and communication. However, the cost of a new computer or tablet can be a significant barrier for students who are already facing financial difficulties.
The computers are donated and may have otherwise ended up in landfills, helping to reduce waste. By accepting the generous donation, students are also helping someone else fulfill their desire to give.
High Intent Marketing runs the Computers with Causes, and no governmental entity has any involvement. You can also get financial support if necessary.
6. TechSoup
TechSoup is a non-profit organization that is dedicated to empowering communities through technology. The organization offers a range of services and resources to eligible charities, non-governmental organizations, and libraries to help them achieve their mission and make a positive impact in their communities.
One of the key initiatives of TechSoup is to provide gifted technology and associated assets to eligible organizations. This includes full-version software licenses, hardware, and other technology-related resources that can help organizations to operate more efficiently, reach more people, and achieve their goals.
Through its program, TechSoup has provided technology resources to thousands of organizations around the world, helping them to improve their operations, expand their reach, and make a difference in their communities.
Organizations must first register with TechSoup Canada to receive these donations and go through the qualification process. The organization’s staff can guide beneficiaries through the process and help them understand the unique donation criteria of different IT companies. The goal of TechSoup Canada is to help organizations like Lynne’s that are in need of up-to-date technology to serve their communities better.
School Programs
There aren’t many school programs that specifically provide iPad, but you can get something from them –
Wake Forest University:
Wake Forest University’s WakeWare program is an initiative that provides students, faculty, and staff with access to high-quality technology products at discounted prices. Through the program, individuals can purchase laptops, computers, tablets, and other technology devices at a negotiable price.
One of the advantages of the WakeWare program is that it also provides insurance and protection against damage for the purchased products. This means that students can have peace of mind knowing that their devices are covered in case of accidental damage or other issues.
Northwest Missouri State University: Students taking at least 12 credits for undergrad and 9 credits for graduate will receive a laptop or tablet in their tuition. But, you must return the tablet upon graduation. According to the University website, this program has saved students over $6,800 in four years. However, online students aren’t allowed to enjoy this facility.
Bethel University:
Students enrolled in the College of Arts and Sciences or the College of Professional Studies at Boston College are entitled to a complimentary Google Chromebook. These lightweight laptops are designed for web-based computing, making them an excellent choice for students who need to access online resources, collaborate with classmates, and complete coursework.
One of the key benefits of using a Chromebook is its integration with Google’s suite of productivity tools, such as Google Drive, Docs, Sheets, and Slides. These tools make it easy for students to work on group projects, share documents with classmates and professors, and access their work from any device with an internet connection.
Centenary College: Incoming, on-campus undergraduates can choose between a Toshiba Satellite or MacBook Pro laptop. And the authority said to increase the number of options. Only full-time students get these free stuffs. Devices are given upon enrollment and must return upon graduation.
Widener University: Widner University offers a Laptop Scholarship for School undergraduate students of engineering. Students must meet a few requirements to get a free laptop or tablet. Furthermore, there are numerous alternatives available.
Full Sail University: Full Sail partners with Apple to provide students with a MacBook Pro or MSI laptop (depending on major) through Project Launchbox. Students with a GPA over 1.0 receive a scholarship to cover the $3,000 cost.
Indiana State University: Students admitted and Pell-eligible can receive a Microsoft Surface Laptop Pro through the Sycamore Technology Award. Newly enrolled first-year students are automatically qualified for the program, while students transferring from another institution must submit an application.
University of Minnesota-Crookston: All on-campus university students receive a free HP laptop. This program was the first of its kind, and hundreds of other universities have followed suit. Students must return laptops upon graduation.
Final Verdict
Various options exist for low-income families to obtain a free iPad, such as through government assistance programs, non-profit organizations, and educational initiatives. By taking advantage of these opportunities, families can access the benefits of technology, including online learning and communication tools, without the added financial burden. I recommend thoroughly researching each option and considering eligibility criteria before applying.