With the COVID-19 pandemic driving students to online learning, the City of Port St. Lucie is helping to facilitate the best possible virtual school experience by providing 2,000 free mobile hotspots to families struggling to access the Internet because of financial impediments. So far, St. Lucie Public Schools, Renaissance Charter Schools and Somerset College Preparatory Academy received 1,400 devices.
With six months of unlimited Internet service, the City’s Neighborhood Services Department has 600 free Netgear Nighthawk MR1100 Mobile Hotspots available to Port St. Lucie students who are currently enrolled in a virtual school program as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. The hotspot features parental control to filter out inappropriate websites.
“The City of Port St. Lucie understands the needs of our community are tremendous during this pandemic,” said Carmen Capezzuto, Neighborhood Services Director. “Offering proper Internet service to school children with inadequate access to Wi-Fi is a unique way that we are meeting one of those needs.”
Port St. Lucie’s Wi-Fi Mobile HotSpot Program is funded by the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act. The program is available on a first-come, first-serve basis and while supplies last. Eligibility is based on meeting income guidelines. Students enrolled in a charter school or those who are homeschooled may qualify. There is a limit of one device per household. To find out if your family meets the requirements for a free mobile hot spot, call 772-871-5264 or email the Neighborhood Services Department at COVIDgrant@cityofpsl.com.
