Rogers expands low-cost Internet program Connected for Success to even more Canadians in Ontario, New Brunswick and Newfoundland

Today we announced we are expanding eligibility for our Connected for Success_™ program to help bridge the digital divide for those who need it the most, in addition to offering more speed options to support evolving connectivity needs.  The Canadian first of its kind reliable, high-speed, low-cost Internet program is now expanding to new qualifying customers receiving income support, disability benefits or seniors receiving the Guaranteed Income Supplement.  It is available everywhere Rogers offers Internet service in Ontario, New Brunswick and Newfoundland. 

Rogers was the first Internet provider to offer this type of program, first introduced with Toronto Community Housing in 2013, expanded to those in Rent-Geared-to-Income housing in 2016, and to those receiving the Maximum Child Care Benefit through Connecting Families in 2018.  After consulting with key government and community stakeholders, the expansion will include new speed options to support evolving connectivity needs of Canadians.  Rogers newly expanded program supports the federal government’s plan to provide faster Internet speeds to Canadians. 

Eligible customers can apply through the Connected for Success website and they must provide verification that they are receiving government financial assistance under one of the five qualifying programs. A Rogers customer experience specialist will then contact every qualified customer to do a needs assessment to determine which speed best meets their household’s needs, noting the program provides free installation and modem rental, unlimited data and no credit checks.  This personalized experience will ensure the unique needs of every customer are met, including online schooling, accessing online social supports and job searches, attending virtual medical appointments, and combatting social isolation by staying connected to loved ones virtually. 

Connected for Success is just one of the ways Rogers is committed to bridging the digital divide to meet critical connectivity needs in our communities. 

Quotes:

“This last year in particular has shown us the vital role that networks and connectivity play in all of our lives.  At Rogers we want to help ensure that no Canadian is left behind in accessing affordable Internet options. We were the first to introduce a program to help low-income Canadians connect and are pleased to expand today to help more Ontarians with additional options to meet their needs.  We are proud to play a role in bridging the digital divide to ensure more people and families stay connected to the things that matter most, including vital support systems, access to employment, learning and loved ones.”
– Joe Natale, President and CEO, Rogers Communications.

“The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted how much we all rely on digital connections now. It has reinforced the importance of access to affordable high-speed Internet as, now more than ever, Canadians are working, learning and communicating with friends and family from home. It is a priority for our Government to ensure that all Canadians get connected, and we are counting on our partners in the private sector to help us achieve that goal. I congratulate Rogers on expanding its Connected for Success program, now helping even more Canadians with their connectivity needs, and further bridging the digital divide.”
– The Honourable François-Philippe Champagne, Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry

“The COVID-19 pandemic has demonstrated the importance of high-speed Internet when it comes to work, school and staying connected to our loved ones. I applaud the Connected for Success program for making this essential service available to more New Brunswickers. Initiatives like this play a key role in supporting our government’s commitment to building vibrant and sustainable communities.”
– The Honourable Blaine Higgs, Premier of New Brunswick

“We know that COVID-19 is having a disproportionate impact on vulnerable populations and those living in poverty in Canada – with a growing digital divide in who can access much needed supports. For an isolated senior trying to book their vaccine, a mom reaching out for crisis counselling or a furloughed worker trying to re-enter the workforce, digital access is no longer a luxury – it’s a necessity.”
– Daniele Zanotti, President & CEO, United Way Greater Toronto.

“Women fleeing violence will greatly benefit from this program with Rogers, particularly in rural areas. We know that domestic violence comes in many forms – including financial and technological abuse. Safe, affordable connectivity is essential for women and children to access services, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. This program will enable countless women to receive the counselling and safety planning they need, stay in touch with loved ones, apply for jobs, and attend on-line schooling, all of which helps them – and their children – to live lives free from violence.” 
– Kaitlin Geiger-Bardswich, Communications and Development Manager, Women’s Shelters Canada

“Even prior to the pandemic Rogers was at the forefront of ensuring Ontarians that live in non-profit housing had affordable access to internet and we are pleased to be partnering with them on the launch of this initiative which will ensure no one is left behind as connectivity needs become more complex for families. This along with Rogers ongoing commitment to expanding their services to remote and rural communities in the province are continued steps in the right direction for our tenants. I’m personally excited about the positive impact this will have for kids who made the transition to online learning knowing that will be able to so with reliable service from the comfort of their home, which for some, has not been the case during the pandemic. This is an important program for our providers and the tenants we serve.”
-Andrew McKenzie, Director of Operations, Ontario Non-Profit Housing Association

“The pandemic has shed light on many social barriers including the importance of access to technology and Internet affordability. In times where social connection or the pursuit of education or betterment of economic conditions can only be done through the internet, programs like Connected for Success are innovative and inclusive solutions to break the social barriers and make sure that no family is left behind and most importantly, have the tools to be informed and connected.”
– Moncef Lakouas, Executive Director, Boys and Girls Club of Moncton

“Rogers Communications has been very supportive to the Teen Resource Centre in helping youth achieve their academic and personal goals. We are pleased to see Rogers have again found ways to support the youth in our community.  Low-cost internet support will ease the burden of many youth and their families during these challenging times.  Connecting to schools, friends and their community on a consistent basis is important for all of our youth.”
– Heather Doyle, Pathways Program Director, Teen Resource Centre

“Rogers Connected for Success program has been instrumental in the lives of our participants, and the expansion of the program will ensure its availability to more of our vulnerable population, in particular those living in poverty.  In the past year we have seen a shift to online learning and online medical and mental health care, and it is more important than ever that every one of us has internet access.” 
– Kerri Rowe, Blue Door Support Coordinator, Thrive CYN