I just got off the air on CNN for my weelky tech segment (8:20am edt) and fewlt that I really needed to post more info about today’s segment. Recently, I have been researching some free phone and free service programs. The two I have checked out are SafeLinkWireless.com & AssuranceWireless.com both programs are available due to the LifelIne Assistance program created by the Reagan Administration in 1984 originally created to help discount needy families landline phone service & to essentially offer telecommunication services to low-income Americans. The USF is not funded taxpayer dollars but through contributions from telecommunications companies.

Fast Forward to the wireless age and we now have companies that are utilizing the Univ Service Fund to help needy Americans.

SafeLinkWireless offers anywhere between 55-68 minutes free per month, is available in 19 states and has 2 million customers.

AssuranceWireless offers 200 free minutes per month and is currently available in 4 states.

Goto their websites for more details and eligibility requirements. I REALLY hope this program helps needy families that need basic communication tools to look for jobs, make emergency calls,  doctor appointments and stay in touch with family and friends.