Civil Rights News: Affordable Broadband Access; New Support for Foster Kids

FCC to Explore Helping Low-Income Americans Afford Internet Access
by Alex Fitzpatrick – Mashable

With high-speed internet gradually replacing the telephone as a communication plan, FCC Chairman Julius Genachowski proposed reform the Lifeline program that provides affordable telephone service to low-income Americans by including broadband connections. The reform is set to update the program and prevent duplicative billing, estimating to save the fund $2 billion over the next two years.

Helping L.A.’s Foster Kids Grow Up
By Thomas Byrne, Dennis Culhane and Stephen Metraux – Los Angeles Times

Findings stress the economic and social adversity that former foster youth face transitioning to adulthood. Studies show that most youngsters who leave foster care at age 18 use almost $13,000 worth of health and social services before their 22nd birthday. The California Fostering Connections to Success Act which took effect at the beginning of this year allows young people between the age of 18 and 21 to continue benefiting from the economic and social support they would generally receive from their families. However, pressures to ensure success are taking place requiring more needs to be completed, including special education programs and mental illness treatments.

Compiled by Isabella Acosta-Rubio