Charleston Internet Resources for Low-Income Families
Many people take the internet for granted, but many households across the United States still lack a broadband connection. Low-income families in Charleston are particularly hit by this digital divide, especially now that many services are only available online. We assembled the following list of resources to help you find affordable devices, virtual child care and free Wi-Fi in the Charleston area:
Discounted Distance Learning Devices in Charleston
- Charleston County School District: Starting in Fall 2020, the Charleston County School District launched its full-time Virtual Academy program for students from kindergarten to 12th grade. The program is completely free and gives every student a laptop for school use.
- Palmetto Goodwill: Palmetto Goodwill reduces electronic waste in Charleston by recycling old equipment and offering affordable computers to those in need. If you can’t make it to their location on Rivers Avenue, you can shop their inventory online.
- ConnectHomeUSA: ConnectHomeUSA is closing the digital divide in Charleston and other communities around the country by connecting low-income individuals with affordable computers. All you have to do is enter your ZIP code, fill out some eligibility requirements and view offers to get connected.
In addition to the programs listed above, you can find affordable devices at one of Charleston’s many retailers selling refurbished computers and tablets at a discount. Some of your options include:
- Computer Repair Doctor
- The Computer Guyz
- CompuZone: Charleston
Remote Learning Programs and Virtual Child Care Centers in Charleston
- South Carolina Aquarium: The South Carolina Aquarium is offering free virtual tours every weekday between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. An experienced and knowledgeable STEM tour guide leads each session.
- City of Charleston: Join your local government for daily recreational activities everyone in the family can do at home. Services include virtual tours, arts & crafts and even yoga, all for free!
- Gibbes Museum of Art: Thanks to Google Street Views, visitors can walk through all of the Gibbes Museum’s exhibits for free. Visitors can also download the Gibbes Museum of Art mobile app to learn more about each individual piece on display.
- Live 5 News: One of Charleston’s local news stations is hosting a free virtual classroom every Tuesday and Thursday at 2 p.m. via Facebook Live. Kids can tour the news studio in addition to learning more about the jobs of reporters and meteorologists.
- Charleston County Public Library: Charleston County Library offers a large variety of virtual resources, including audiobooks, eBooks, access to databases and much more. They’re also hosting daily storytimes and art classes for free. All you need is a library card, and getting one is easy.
Free Wireless Internet Access in Charleston
- Charleston Free Wi-Fi Map
- Charleston Digital Corridor Free Wi-Fi Map
- WifiMap.io Charleston Free Wi-Fi Map
The Charleston County Public Library also offers free Wi-Fi at all its branches, except the Folly Beach location, every day from 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. The Library’s Wi-Fi extends beyond the walls of its buildings, allowing patrons to browse the internet from their parked cars. For even more free Wi-Fi locations, check out the free Wi-Fi map we put together below: