Adult residents of Chicago’s South and West sides can learn basic Microsoft Office computer skills during the next month, thanks to free classes provided by Comcast. The classes will be held at community-based organizations and administered through Local Initiatives Support Corporation’s Smart Communities program.

Comcast’s Internet Essentials program provides Internet service at home to eligible low-income families for about $10/month, with no price increases, activation fees or equipment rental fees for families for as long as they’re in the program. Participants can purchase a low-cost computer for about $150 through the program, and access to free digital literacy training in person, in print and online.

To qualify, families must live in neighborhoods where Comcast offers Internet service; have at least one child who’s eligible for free or reduced-price school lunches via the National School Lunch Program (NSLP); may not have subscribed to Comcast Internet service within the last 90 days; and may not have an overdue Comcast bill or unreturned equipment. Classes are open to the public and participants must register with the agency. To register, call some of the agencies participating in Comcast’s Internet Essentials program.

Chicago Commons
3441 W. Chicago Ave,
Contact Person: Michelle Flores, 773-826-0739

Instituto Del Progreso Latinos
2570 S. Blue Island
Contact Person: Lubia Nunez-Montelongo, 773-890-0055

Metropolitan Family Services
747 W. 63rd
Contact Person: Clarence Hogan, 773-487-3731