Comcast touts its low cost service

Connecticut-based communications giant Comcast said this week that its Internet Essentials program has benefited more than 150,000 low income families in the past 16 months.

The program, intended to address the "digital divide," provides low cost Internet service for $9.95 a month plus tax to eligible families. It also offers the option of purchasing an Internet-ready computer for under $150 as well as access to free digital literacy training.

"While we're pleased with our progress to date, we have more work to do to bring more families into the digital age," Comcast Executive Vice President David L. Cohen said in a statement.