New York City Announces Extension of Free Internet-Enabled Tablets for 10,000 Older Adults in NYCHA

Following last spring’s delivery of 10,000 internet-enabled tablets to older NYCHA residents, the City is extending free internet service on those devices for an additional year 

NEW YORK—Following last spring’s delivery of 10,000 internet-enabled tablets to older adults living alone in 288 NYCHA housing developments across all five boroughs, Mayor Bill de Blasio, Chief Technology Officer John Paul Farmer, DFTA Commissioner Lorraine Cortez-Vasquez and NYCHA Chair and CEO Greg Russ today announced the City is extending free internet service on those devices for an additional year. During the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic in New York City last spring, New York City provided 10,000 tablets to older New Yorkers who live alone in New York City Housing Authority (NYCHA) developments. 

“COVID-19 has only reinforced how essential Internet access is, whether it is used to connect to loved ones, school or a doctor,” said Mayor Bill de Blasio. “Providing 10,000 NYCHA seniors with free access to the Internet for another year will be transformative for their lives and help them stay connected in the digital age.”

NYCHA residents who are aged 62 and older and living alone were prioritized for tablets as well as wrap around support services from the Department for the Aging and Older Adults Technology Services (also known as Senior Planet) to help older NYCHA residents in setting up and learning to operate their tablet, access free classes and resources, and engage with friends and family. With this extension, NYCHA older adults who received the tablets will be able to enjoy free internet connectivity and support services for an additional year.  To learn more visit nyc.gov/cto.