By David Vitrano

L’Observateur

LAPLACE – A new federal program could help almost 12,000 households in the River Parishes stay connected with loved ones and other important contacts.

Louisiana recently became one of 21 states across the country to participate in SafeLink Wireless, a program funded by the Federal Communications Commission’s Universal Service Fund. Through the program, low-income households can obtain a free cell phone and 68 minutes of free monthly talk time from TracFone.

“We are proud to be able to now bring SafeLink Wireless to those most in need, offering the same access and privileges many individuals now take for granted when it comes to using cell phones, including contact with current or potential employers, children away from home or relatives in other parts of the country, not to mention vital emergency responders,” said Jose Fuentes, director of government relations for TracFone.

According to a TracFone representative, the phones are free of charge, have no contracts or monthly bills and require no security deposits or credit checks. In addition to the 68 free minutes per month, which are transferable from month to month, program participants also have unlimited access to 9-1-1 and may purchase additional minutes in the form of cards from local retailers.

The program period is one year, but households may reapply after their 12 months is up.

Families on government assistance programs such as Medicaid and Food Stamps or whose total household income is at or under 135 percent of the Federal Poverty Guidelines may qualify for the program. To find out a full list of qualifications as well as to get an application call 1-800-SAFELINK (1-800-723-3546) or visit www.safelink.com.

SafeLink is an extension of Lifeline, a program started by the FCC in 1984 to ensure everyone had reasonable access to telephone communication. Of course, at that time, telephone communication meant a landline.

Now, according to a TracFone representative, the program has been updated to reflect the way people communicate today.

Additionally, the spate of disasters in the last decade has shown the necessity for cell phone communication when all other methods are unavailable.

Over 4,700 households in St. John the Baptist Parish alone qualify for the program, said a TracFone representative. In St. Charles Parish, over 4,200 qualify, and in St. James Parish over 2,700 households qualify.