Digital Literacy and Technology Assistance for Single Mothers in Michigan

Digital Literacy & Technology Assistance for Single Mothers in Michigan

Last updated: September 2025

This hub gives you fast, Michigan‑specific ways to get connected, get a device, learn digital skills, and keep bills under control. You will see clear steps, wait times, eligibility rules, and direct links. Bookmark this page and share it. It will save you time, bus rides, and stress.

If You Only Do 3 Things — Emergency Actions to Take

Call or text for live help right now. Dial 2‑1‑1 or 1‑844‑875‑9211 to reach Michigan 2‑1‑1, then ask for “internet, phone, or utility help” and a referral in your county. You can also use the online search at mi211.org and ask to be connected to a local Navigator. (mi211.org)
Apply for Lifeline (monthly discount on phone or home internet) today. Do it online through the National Verifier at LifelineSupport.org or call the Lifeline Support Center at 1‑800‑234‑9473 if you need help. If approved, call your phone or internet company to add the benefit. (lifelinesupport.org)
Get low‑cost internet or a hotspot you can actually afford this month. Check $15 m o bi l e b ro a d ban df ro m * [PC s f or P eo pl e] (h ttp s : // www . p cs f or p eo pl e . or g / co nn ec t /) * or$ 25 home internet from Spectrum Internet Assist; if Comcast serves you, “Internet Essentials” starts at $9.95. Compare at install time and choose what you can keep paying. (pcsforpeople.org)

Quick Help Box — Keep These Numbers and Links Handy

Michigan 2‑1‑1: Dial 2‑1‑1 or 1‑844‑875‑9211 for live referrals; online search at mi211.org (ask for digital inclusion or utility help). (mi211.org)
Lifeline Support Center: 1‑800‑234‑9473; apply at LifelineSupport.org (phone/internet discount). (lifelinesupport.org)
MI Bridges Help Desk (MDHHS online benefits portal): 1‑844‑799‑9876; apply/renew at MI Bridges. (michigan.gov)
Michigan Works! job and training line: 1‑800‑285‑WORKS; find your local office at MichiganWorks.org (ask about digital skills classes). (michiganworks.org)
Michigan Attorney General Consumer Protection: 1‑877‑765‑8388; file scams online at AG Consumer Protection (get help with identity theft or fraud). (michigan.gov)

What Changed in 2024–2025 That Affects You

The big internet discount known as the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) ran out of funding and ended June 1, 2024. You cannot newly enroll and you no longer get the ACP credit, so your bill likely went up. Your best options now are Lifeline and provider low‑cost plans. Read the FCC’s update at fcc.gov/acp and the “ACP Has Ended” consumer FAQ. (fcc.gov)

Michigan is investing billions to expand high‑speed internet through the Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) program led by the Michigan High‑Speed Internet Office (MIHI). Michigan’s allocation is about $1.559 billion, with buildouts beginning to hit the ground in late 2025 and beyond. Track progress at Michigan MIHI and InternetforAll.gov. (michigan.gov)

Reality check: you still need an affordable plan now, even while fiber is coming later. That means applying for Lifeline, checking $10‑$ 30 provider plans, and using library hotspots to bridge gaps. Details below.

How to Get Online in Michigan This Week

Start with the lowest‑cost, fastest route you can qualify for. Use the steps in order and stop once you’ve landed a stable plan you can afford.

Step 1 — Apply for Lifeline and add it to your service

Lifeline is a federal discount up to $9.25/ m o n t h (u pt o$ 34.25 on Tribal lands) on either phone or internet. Apply online at LifelineSupport.org, then call your provider to attach the benefit; or phone the Support Center at 1‑800‑234‑9473 for help. Eligibility is based on income (≤135% FPL) or participation in programs like SNAP or Medicaid; the Michigan Public Service Commission also lists the state’s additional voice‑only discounts. (usac.org)

Typical approval is same‑day if the National Verifier can match your data; if documents are needed, expect 2–5 business days. You must recertify yearly through USAC or you lose the discount. (lifelinesupport.org)
If your household is on Tribal lands, ask your carrier about the enhanced Lifeline and Link Up rules listed for Tribal communities on USAC’s Tribal page. (usac.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If the National Verifier denies you, call 1‑800‑234‑9473 and ask what proof they need; you can appeal to USAC or file an FCC complaint at consumercomplaints.fcc.gov. For state‑level help, contact the Michigan Public Service Commission at 1‑800‑292‑9555 or review MPSC Lifeline. (lifelinesupport.org)

Step 2 — Pick a low‑cost internet or hotspot plan you can keep paying

Use your address and the list below. Check the no‑contract options first. If you’re between jobs or moving, a prepaid hotspot can be a lifesaver.

Comcast Xfinity Internet Essentials: $9.95/ m o (50 M b p s) or I n t er n e tE sse n t ia l s Pl u s$ 29.95/mo (100 Mbps); Comcast also now has simplified unlimited data plans with optional 5‑year price guarantees starting at $55/month. Check availability at Xfinity Internet Essentials and Comcast Price Guarantee. (corporate.comcast.com)
Spectrum Internet Assist: $25/ m o f or 50 M b p s;$ 30/mo “Advantage” 100 Mbps option in many areas; includes modem and no data cap. See Spectrum Internet Assist for current details. (spectrum.com)
Access from AT&T: typically $15-$ 30/mo based on available speed; company dropped older $5-$ 10 tiers in 2024; check your address at Access from AT&T and review the current price page at AT&T: Affordable Internet. (att.com)
PCs for People (mobile 5G/4G hotspot): $15/mo prepaid, no credit check; device purchase required; coverage uses national LTE/5G partners (T‑Mobile). Order at PCs for People Internet or call 1‑877‑450‑8585. (pcsforpeople.org)
Surf Internet “Surf 50” in eligible fiber areas: $25/mo, 50 Mbps, no contract; MIHI lists it under low‑cost options at MIHI Low‑Cost Programs. (michigan.gov)

Expected timelines: Installers can take 3–10 business days for cable or fiber; prepaid hotspots generally ship in 3–4 business days after device purchase; same‑day store pickup may be available in Detroit through human‑I‑T at 6375 W. 7 Mile Rd. (Mon–Sat). (pcsforpeople.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If all home plans are too expensive, start with a $15 hotspot via PCs for People and lean on free Wi‑Fi at libraries listed in the “Hotspots You Can Borrow” section; ask your branch about device‑loan programs shown at GRPL Hotspots and KDL Hotspots. (pcsforpeople.org)

Step 3 — Use Michigan’s public Wi‑Fi and “loaner hotspot” network

You can borrow a hotspot or use strong library Wi‑Fi across the state. Check your local branch through the Michigan eLibrary at MeL.org and the Library of Michigan MeL pages; West Michigan examples include Grand Rapids Public Library (6‑week loans) and Kent District Library (adult card required). (mel.org)

If you are near Detroit, Connect 313 funds Neighborhood Technology Hubs where residents get devices, internet, and classes. Start at Connect 313 or call Detroit’s Office of Digital Equity & Inclusion at 313‑224‑3464 to find a nearby hub. (connect313.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If branches are out of hotspots, ask staff about interlibrary loans through MeLCat and request a device; also check if your child’s school participates in eduroam expansion by Merit Network for secure campus Wi‑Fi. (michigan.gov)

Low‑Cost Internet & Hotspot Options in Michigan

The “ACP credit” is gone; pick plans with prices you can sustain. Confirm taxes/fees and equipment costs at sign‑up.

Provider	Typical price (Sept 2025)	Speeds (down)	Contract	Notes/Where to apply
Comcast Internet Essentials	$9.95	50 Mbps	No	Apply through Internet Essentials; Plus tier $29.95 for 100 Mbps. (corporate.comcast.com)
Spectrum Internet Assist	$25	50 Mbps	No	Includes modem; see Spectrum Assist. (spectrum.com)
AT&T Access	$15-$ 30	Up to 100 Mbps	No	Updated Aug 2024; check AT&T Access info. (att.com)
PCs for People Hotspot	$15	LTE/5G	No	Prepaid; device purchase needed; PCs for People Connect. (pcsforpeople.org)
Surf Internet (select fiber areas)	$25	50 Mbps	No	Listed by MIHI at MIHI Low‑Cost. (michigan.gov)

Reality check: if a sales rep pushes a “limited‑time upgrade,” ask for the permanent low‑cost plan by name (Internet Essentials, Internet Assist, Access). Get the monthly price, equipment fee, and taxes in writing in your provider confirmation email or account portal before install. Comcast’s broader unlimited plans also have a five‑year price‑lock option starting at $55 if you can afford a higher tier now and want stability. (corporate.comcast.com)

Devices You Can Afford (and Where to Get Them)

You do not need a $900 laptop to apply for benefits, email teachers, or join a telehealth visit. Start cheap and reliable.

PCs for People sells refurbished laptops and desktops with warranty; income eligibility required. Start at PCs for People or visit their site to chat with Support. (pcsforpeople.org)
human‑I‑T in Detroit (6375 W. 7 Mile Road) offers low‑cost laptops, tablets, and hotspots; order online and pick up in a week; in‑store discounts possible. Check hours at human‑I‑T Detroit. (human-i-t.org)
For blind/low‑vision users, the state’s Bureau of Services for Blind Persons can provide adaptive tech training and, case‑by‑case, devices or software. Learn more at BSBP or contact the BSBP Training Center in Kalamazoo (269‑337‑3848). (michigan.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your public library about laptop‑lending or device grants via MeL; call Michigan Works! to ask if a training program includes a loaner device; check Assistive Technology loan and mini‑loan financing via MI‑UCP if you need accessibility gear. (michiganworks.org)

Learn the Skills — Free Digital Classes You Can Finish

Strong digital skills move you into better‑paying work and make everyday tasks easier. Use these Michigan options:

Michigan Works! and WIOA Adult programs can fund short digital upskilling, resume software training, and more. Start with Michigan Works! Association and the state’s WIOA Adult Program page. (michiganworks.org)
Connect 313’s Neighborhood Technology Hubs in Detroit provide devices, classes, and coaches near home; details at Connect 313 Hubs or email City of Detroit’s Digital Equity office for help. (connect313.org)
Michigan eLibrary offers free online courses, test prep, and career tools statewide—use your library card at MeL.org; librarians can also help you navigate MeLCat interlibrary loans. (mel.org)

Timelines: Many classes are walk‑in or 1–3 sessions; workforce‑funded training approvals can take 5–10 business days through your local Michigan Works! office. (michiganworks.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask a librarian to sit with you for a 30‑minute “digital basics” help appointment via GRPL or KDL; in Detroit, call 313‑224‑3464 and ask where the next beginner class is offered. (detroitmi.gov)

Hotspots You Can Borrow — Library Examples

Library system	Loan period	Who can borrow	Where to start
Grand Rapids Public Library (GRPL)	6 weeks, renewals if no holds	Adult GRPL cardholders	GRPL Hotspots; Spanish info available. (grpl.org)
Kent District Library (KDL)	Local policy; adult card and ID	Adult KDL cardholders	KDL FAQ: Hotspots; ask staff about current waitlist. (kdl.org)
Statewide via MeL	Varies by branch	Cardholders in participating libraries	Use MeL.org and ask your branch to request a hotspot or device via MeLCat. (mel.org)

Reality check: hotspot demand is high—expect a waitlist of 1–3 weeks in larger systems. Ask staff about “digital navigator” appointments or training while you wait, and use in‑library Wi‑Fi in the meantime. See Library of Michigan MeL info for system‑wide resources. (michigan.gov)

Online Safety That Actually Helps

You’ll see fake job posts, gift card scams, and identity theft attempts. Use these Michigan tools right away.

Report scams or get advice from the Michigan Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Team (1‑877‑765‑8388). File online at AG Consumer Protection or review imposter‑scam alerts. (michigan.gov)
If your accounts were hacked, place fraud alerts and freezes; the AG’s “Data Breaches — What to Do Next” page links to federal tools and hotlines, including 1‑877‑ID‑THEFT. See AG Data Breach guidance. (michigan.gov)
For cybercrime that threatens your workplace or school, the Michigan Cyber Command Center (MC3) coordinates incident responses and public education. Start at MC3 (MSP) and report personal incidents to your local police station first. (michigan.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If a company won’t respond to your complaint, file at consumercomplaints.fcc.gov for telecom issues and at FTC.gov for online fraud. The AG can mediate some disputes via online complaint form. (michigan.gov)

Telehealth and Mental Health — Getting Connected Fast

Michigan Medicaid, the Healthy Michigan Plan, and many commercial plans continue to cover telemedicine with defined billing codes. Coverage specifics change, but MDHHS guidance and policy bulletins show allowed audio‑visual and, with limits, audio‑only visits; providers must document barriers for phone‑only visits. Read current policy references through MDHHS 2025 Bulletins and the statewide telehealth summaries at CCHP. (michigan.gov)

Veterans: ask your VA provider for a “Digital Divide Consult.” VA can loan you an internet‑connected tablet and works with carriers so VA Video Connect doesn’t count against your mobile data. Learn more at VA Telehealth Digital Divide and VA Mobile — Loaned Devices, or call MyVA411 at 1‑800‑698‑2411 (TTY 711). (telehealth.va.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your clinic’s social worker to help you apply for a loaner device or to identify Lifeline options; if you’re in Detroit, call 313‑224‑3464 to locate a Connect 313 hub with private spaces for telehealth. (lifelinesupport.org)

How to Stop Utility Shutoff in Michigan Today

If your power or heat is at risk, you cannot do online school, job searches, or telehealth. Use these state protections immediately.

Winter Protection Plan (WPP) protects qualifying seniors (65+) and low‑income households from shutoff Nov 1–Mar 31; typical payment is 7% of your estimated annual bill during winter with a catch‑up plan after March. Contact your utility to enroll; see examples and rules at Michigan Gas Utilities WPP. (michigangasutilities.com)
Medical Emergency and Critical Care protections can delay shutoff for 21 days (extendable) when loss of service would worsen a documented medical condition, including life‑support equipment at home. Review the rules and get your doctor to complete the form listed under Michigan Admin Code R 460.130 and R 460.130a. (law.cornell.edu)
State Emergency Relief (SER) opens the door to Michigan Energy Assistance Program (MEAP) help. Apply through MI Bridges and read MPSC guidance at Energy Assistance; for help, call THAW at 1‑800‑866‑8429. (michigan.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your utility for a payment plan and write down the confirmation; then call 2‑1‑1 or THAW to see if MEAP funds are available in your area. If denied, use the MPSC consumer help at Get Help — Utility Customers. (thawfund.org)

Birmingham Water Bill Help (Oakland County)

Detroit’s Lifeline water plan is paused for new enrollments as of Dec 2024, but help is still available through WRAP in neighboring communities including Birmingham. Oakland and Washtenaw residents can apply for WRAP through United Way SEM’s portal or call 1‑844‑211‑4994; WRAP provides bill credits, arrearage help, and minor plumbing repairs. See program details at GLWA WRAP and the Oakland list (Birmingham included) at Berkley WRAP info. (uwsem.smapply.org)

Detroit residents: DWSD’s Lifeline Plan offers $18/$ 43/ $56 f i x e d bi ll s w i t h d e b t er a s u re, b u t n e w e n ro ll m e n t s a re p a u se d; u se E a sy P a y (o n l y$ 10 down; 36‑month plan) to avoid shutoff. Start at DWSD Lifeline or call Wayne Metro at 313‑386‑9727; review EasyPay at DWSD EasyPay. (detroitmi.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If you cannot get WRAP now, dial 2‑1‑1 or contact United Way SEM for other water funds; ask Macomb Community Action or OLHSA if you live in their service areas. (unitedwaysem.org)

Quick Reference Cheat Sheet

Apply for Lifeline: LifelineSupport.org; phone 1‑800‑234‑9473. Expect same‑day to 5 business days. (lifelinesupport.org)
Pick a plan you can keep: Internet Essentials, Spectrum Assist, AT&T Access, or PCs for People. Install or activate within 3–10 business days. (corporate.comcast.com)
Borrow a hotspot: Ask your library; examples at GRPL and KDL. Use MeL.org to locate other branches. (grpl.org)
Need a device: human‑I‑T Detroit or PCs for People; ask about warranties. (human-i-t.org)
Training: Michigan Works! and Connect 313 Hubs; online tools at MeL.org. (michiganworks.org)

Application Checklist — Print or Screenshot

Lifeline: Photo ID; proof of benefits (SNAP/Medicaid) or pay stubs (last 30–60 days); last four of SSN; address. Apply at LifelineSupport.org or call 1‑800‑234‑9473. (lifelinesupport.org)
Provider low‑cost plan: Proof of program participation or income if required; your Lifeline approval number (if using it); billing consent. See Internet Essentials or Spectrum Assist pages for their exact documents. (corporate.comcast.com)
Library hotspot/device: Library card; photo ID; signed borrowing agreement. Search your library via MeL.org and see GRPL hotspot rules at grpl.org/hotspot. (mel.org)
Utility help (SER/MEAP): Disconnection notice, account number, income proof (30 days), ID, and lease/mortgage. Apply via MI Bridges; call THAW (1‑800‑866‑8429) if you need help. (michigan.gov)
Telehealth: Health plan ID; stable device/internet; quiet space. Michigan Medicaid policy updates are posted under MDHHS Medicaid bulletins; veterans can request a VA Digital Divide Consult. (michigan.gov)

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Skipping Lifeline: Many moms assume Lifeline is “phone only.” You can apply the $9.25 to a home internet plan or to a mobile data plan. Apply at LifelineSupport.org first, then call your carrier. (usac.org)
Relying on expired ACP info: Sales pages still mention ACP. Confirm current pricing in writing at fcc.gov/acp and your provider’s “low‑cost” page. (fcc.gov)
Signing long contracts: If your income is unstable, avoid 12‑ or 24‑month contracts. Choose prepaid or low‑cost plans from PCs for People or Spectrum Assist. (pcsforpeople.org)
Ignoring library options: Hotspots often bridge short gaps. Ask at GRPL or KDL, and search statewide at MeL.org. (grpl.org)
Not using medical protections: If a shutoff would worsen a medical condition, submit the form under R 460.130 to pause shutoff while you get SER/MEAP processed. (law.cornell.edu)

Reality Check: Delays, Denials, and Funding Gaps

ACP ended: Budget like the $30 credit will not return soon; confirm the latest at fcc.gov/acp and ask your ISP for their standing low‑cost plan. (fcc.gov)
Wait times: Library hotspot waitlists can be 1–3 weeks; provider installs 3–10 business days; Lifeline recertification yearly through USAC. (lifelinesupport.org)
Water help varies by county: Detroit’s Lifeline Plan is paused for new sign‑ups; Birmingham and other Oakland communities use WRAP via United Way SEM. Always call to confirm current availability. (detroitmi.gov)

Eligibility Rules at a Glance

Program	Basic eligibility	How to apply	Typical wait
Lifeline (phone/internet discount)	≤135% FPL or qualifying benefits; one per household	LifelineSupport.org; phone 1‑800‑234‑9473	Same‑day to 5 days (usac.org)
Internet Essentials / Spectrum Assist / AT&T Access	Income‑based or program participation; service area required	Provider low‑cost pages: Comcast, Spectrum, AT&T	3–10 business days (corporate.comcast.com)
PCs for People hotspot	Income eligibility + device purchase	PCs for People Internet	Ship 3–4 business days (pcsforpeople.org)
Library hotspot	Adult card + ID; policies vary	Your library via MeL.org; see GRPL examples	0–21 days typical (grpl.org)
SER/MEAP (energy)	Income‑eligible; crisis or shutoff notice	MI Bridges; partners like THAW	7–15 business days (michigan.gov)
WRAP (water)	≤200% FPL; GLWA member areas	GLWA WRAP; United Way SEM	10 business days (after docs) (glwater.org)

Diverse Communities — Tailored Help and Access

LGBTQ+ single mothers: Ask for safe, affirming spaces with tech access through local hubs in Detroit (see Connect 313), and check community centers like Affirmations in Ferndale for support groups and referrals to classes; combine that with Michigan Works! training vouchers for digital skills. Use the AG hotline at 1‑877‑765‑8388 to report harassment linked to online scams. (connect313.org)

Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children: Call the Bureau of Services for Blind Persons for adaptive tech training and devices; explore Michigan Assistive Technology resources and MI‑UCP assistive tech loans. Ask for large‑print applications and TTY via 711 through Michigan Relay. (michigan.gov)

Veteran single mothers: Request a VA Digital Divide Consult; VA can loan you a data‑enabled tablet and waive mobile data for VA Video Connect. For general help, call MyVA411 at 1‑800‑698‑2411 (TTY 711) and ask about local Virtual Health Resource Centers. (telehealth.va.gov)

Immigrant/refugee single moms: Use Michigan 2‑1‑1 to find English‑learner digital classes near you; ask for free interpretation at your MDHHS office and use MI Bridges in your preferred language. Many hubs in Detroit and Dearborn can refer you to bilingual training; start with Detroit’s Digital Equity office. (mi211.org)

Tribal‑specific resources: Lifeline offers up to $34.25/month on Tribal lands; some Tribes are expanding broadband using federal grants and training, like the Sault Ste. Marie Tribe’s recent initiatives. Check your Tribal government and USAC Tribal Lifeline; read about regional training at the Tribal Broadband Bootcamp. (usac.org)

Rural single moms with limited access: Watch MIHI’s BEAD project maps at Michigan MIHI; consider prepaid PCs for People hotspots now while fiber builds out. Rural libraries and schools are adding eduroam through the Merit/Internet2 program; ask your school district if it participates. (pcsforpeople.org)

Single fathers: Every program above is for households, not gender‑limited. Use LifelineSupport.org and Michigan Works!; if you’re co‑parenting, list the address where the device or hotspot will be used most. (lifelinesupport.org)

Language access: Ask any state office to connect to interpreters via Michigan Relay 711; most sites, including MI Bridges and USAC Lifeline, offer translated pages. For Spanish readers, many library hotspots have español guides. (michigan.gov)

TTY services available: Dial 711 to reach Telecommunications Relay Service and ask to be connected to any number, including 2‑1‑1 or MDHHS. For CapTel and other relay options, see Hamilton Relay — Michigan. (fcc.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If a local office says they “don’t have interpreters,” ask for the supervisor and cite your right to language access; request phone relay via Michigan Relay 711 and notify AG Consumer Protection if you are refused service. (michigan.gov)

Resources by Region — Where to Start

Detroit Metro (Wayne/Oakland/Macomb): Connect 313 hubs at connect313.org; city digital help at 313‑224‑3464 via Digital Equity & Inclusion; water help via DWSD Lifeline & EasyPay and United Way SEM WRAP. (connect313.org)
West Michigan (Kent/Ottawa/Muskegon): Borrow hotspots from GRPL and KDL; training via Michigan Works! network (find West Michigan Works!). (grpl.org)
Mid‑Michigan (Ingham/Eaton/Clinton and surrounding): Use statewide MeL for e‑learning and ask your Michigan Works! office about WIOA‑funded digital skills. (mel.org)
Northern Michigan: Follow MIHI BEAD updates for build timelines; Merit Network supports rural digital equity across the state—watch news at Merit.edu. (michigan.gov)
Upper Peninsula: Tribal broadband efforts and trainings (e.g., Sault Tribe events) are bringing new options; follow Community Networks coverage and your Tribe’s site; continue to use Lifeline and PCs for People in the meantime. (communitynetworks.org)

Troubleshooting — If Your Application Gets Denied

Lifeline denial: Call 1‑800‑234‑9473 and ask for the reason; upload clearer documents through the National Verifier; if still denied, file an appeal and contact the MPSC for help. (lifelinesupport.org)
Low‑cost internet plan full/denied: Reapply with a different proof (e.g., SNAP letter instead of pay stubs); try another provider (e.g., Spectrum Assist or PCs for People); ask about a no‑contract promo with a price guarantee (see Comcast 5‑year lock). (spectrum.com)
SER/MEAP water/energy aid denied: Reapply with missing docs; ask for a supervisor; request a 21‑day medical hold if applicable under R 460.130 and call THAW at 1‑800‑866‑8429 to explore alternate funds. (law.cornell.edu)

Local Organizations, Charities, Churches, and Support Groups

United Way for Southeastern Michigan offers utility and water coordination (WRAP) for Oakland/Washtenaw; start at United Way SEM or call 1‑844‑211‑4994. In all counties, dial 2‑1‑1 for local referrals. (unitedwaysem.org)
Wayne Metro Community Action manages DWSD water help; apply through DWSD Lifeline/EasyPay or call 313‑386‑9727. Use GLWA WRAP for GLWA areas. (detroitmi.gov)
The Heat and Warmth Fund (THAW) assists with energy; call 1‑800‑866‑8429 or text “THAW” to the same number; details at thawfund.org. (thawfund.org)
OLHSA (Oakland‑Livingston Human Service Agency) supports low‑income households with multiple services, including water support; reach OLHSA at 1‑800‑482‑9250 (toll‑free). (olhsa.org)

County‑Specific Differences You Should Know

Wayne County (Detroit): Water help routes through DWSD Lifeline/EasyPay; digital skill hubs via Connect 313 and city line 313‑224‑3464. (detroitmi.gov)
Oakland & Washtenaw Counties: WRAP applications are handled by United Way SEM; many libraries have hotspot kits—ask and search through MeL.org. (unitedwaysem.org)
Macomb County: Water help through Macomb Community Action — WRAP; call Michigan 2‑1‑1 if the portal is closed to new applications. (macombgov.org)

Tables You Can Use

Low‑Cost Plans vs Hotspots — Quick Compare

If you need…	Choose this first	Why it helps	Where to apply
Predictable home internet	Internet Essentials or Spectrum Assist	$9.95-$ 25, unlimited data, stable for school/work	Provider’s low‑cost page (corporate.comcast.com)
Portable, no‑contract access	PCs for People hotspot	$15 prepaid, no credit check	Online or by phone (pcsforpeople.org)
Immediate free option	GRPL/KDL hotspot loans	Borrow for weeks while you wait	Library desk or catalog (grpl.org)

Who to Call for What

Need	Who	Contact
Benefits portal issues	MI Bridges Help Desk	1‑844‑799‑9876 (michigan.gov)
Phone/internet discount	Lifeline Support Center	1‑800‑234‑9473 (lifelinesupport.org)
Local referrals	Michigan 2‑1‑1	2‑1‑1 / 1‑844‑875‑9211 (mi211.org)
Consumer scams	AG Consumer Protection	1‑877‑765‑8388 (michigan.gov)

Utility Protections Summary

Protection	Who qualifies	How it works
Winter Protection Plan	Seniors 65+ and many low‑income households	No shutoff Nov 1–Mar 31; 7% winter payments; contact your utility; see WPP overview. (michigangasutilities.com)
Medical Emergency	Any household member with a documented medical emergency	21‑day postponement; extendable; see R 460.130. (law.cornell.edu)
Critical Care	Life‑support equipment at home	Shutoff protection with physician certification; R 460.130a. (regulations.justia.com)

Michigan Digital Expansion — What’s Coming

Program	Michigan status	What it means
BEAD (broadband builds)	~$1.559B approved; subgrants advancing	New fiber in rural gaps; construction 2025–2029; see MIHI BEAD and NTIA press. (michigan.gov)
Digital Equity Capacity	$20.5M awarded July 2024	Funding for skills, devices, and navigators; NTIA award. (ntia.gov)

Where to Learn — At a Glance

Provider	What you get	Start here
Connect 313 (Detroit)	Hubs, devices, classes	connect313.org (connect313.org)
Michigan Works!	Training vouchers, workshops	michiganworks.org (michiganworks.org)
Michigan eLibrary (MeL)	Free online learning	MeL.org (mel.org)

FAQs — Michigan‑Specific Answers

Is there still a $30 ACP discount in Michigan: No. ACP ended for now June 1, 2024. Switch to Lifeline and low‑cost ISP plans. Read the FCC’s notice at ACP Consumer FAQ. (fcc.gov)
How much is the Lifeline discount: Up to $9.25/ m o n t h f or b ro a d ban d or b u n d l es; u pt o$ 34.25/month on Tribal lands. Apply at LifelineSupport.org or call 1‑800‑234‑9473. (usac.org)
What’s the cheapest reliable plan if I can’t afford cable: Try a $15 p re p ai d h o t s p o t f ro m * [PC s f or P eo pl e] (h ttp s : // www . p cs f or p eo pl e . or g / co nn ec t /) * or$ 25 Spectrum Assist if Spectrum serves your address. (pcsforpeople.org)
Can I get a low‑cost laptop in Detroit: Yes, from human‑I‑T Detroit or PCs for People; ask about income eligibility and warranty. (human-i-t.org)
Where can I borrow a hotspot: Ask your library; examples include GRPL and KDL; statewide resources at MeL.org. (grpl.org)
I’m a veteran without a device: Request a VA Digital Divide Consult; VA can loan an internet‑enabled tablet for telehealth and partner with carriers so video visits don’t eat your data. (telehealth.va.gov)
How long will it take for fiber to reach my road: Michigan’s BEAD projects are moving through awards in 2025, with many builds through 2029. Watch MIHI BEAD updates and local news. (michigan.gov)
My power is about to be shut off. What do I say: Ask your utility for Winter Protection Plan or Medical Emergency protection and the commission‑approved form; then apply for SER via MI Bridges and call THAW at 1‑800‑866‑8429. (michigangasutilities.com)
Can I still get help with water in Birmingham: Yes, apply for WRAP through United Way SEM; confirm you’re in a GLWA member community (Birmingham is) via WRAP partners. Detroit residents can use DWSD EasyPay. (uwsem.smapply.org)
Who can help me fight an online scam: Call the Michigan AG at 1‑877‑765‑8388 and file a complaint at AG Consumer Protection; for telecom billing issues, file at consumercomplaints.fcc.gov. (michigan.gov)

About the BEAD and Digital Equity Work in Michigan

Michigan’s MIHI office is coordinating billions in federal and state funds to expand service and digital skills. The state’s BEAD allocation is ~ $1.559 B, w i t h d i g i t a l e q u i t yc a p a c i t y g r an t so f$ 20.5M awarded July 2024. You can follow open houses and application windows at michigan.gov/mihi and NTIA’s Internet for All press pages. (michigan.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If you have no wired options yet, keep a prepaid hotspot and ask your school district or library about eduroam access via Merit Network; submit location challenges on the FCC map through MIHI’s site to push coverage. (merit.edu)

Spanish Summary — Resumen en Español

Esta guía ofrece pasos rápidos para conseguir internet, dispositivos y clases digitales en Michigan. Solicite el programa Lifeline en LifelineSupport.org (descuento mensual), busque planes de bajo costo como Spectrum Internet Assist o hotspots de PCs for People por $15/mes, y pida prestado un hotspot en su biblioteca (GRPL). Para ayuda de agua y energía, use MI Bridges y United Way SEM — WRAP, o llame a 2‑1‑1. La Línea de Apoyo de Lifeline es 1‑800‑234‑9473; la Oficina del Fiscal General de Michigan (fraudes) es 1‑877‑765‑8388 en Protección al Consumidor. Esta traducción fue producida con herramientas de IA; verifique siempre con las fuentes oficiales.

About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team.

This guide uses official sources including:

Michigan High‑Speed Internet Office (MIHI) and BEAD Program. (michigan.gov)
Federal Communications Commission (FCC) — ACP & Lifeline and USAC Lifeline. (fcc.gov)
MDHHS — MI Bridges and Medicaid Policy Bulletins. (michigan.gov)
Michigan Public Service Commission and Energy Assistance pages. (michigan.gov)
GLWA WRAP and DWSD Lifeline/EasyPay. (glwater.org)
Connect 313 and Library hotspot pages (GRPL/KDL). (connect313.org)
Comcast Internet Essentials, Spectrum Internet Assist, and AT&T Access. (corporate.comcast.com)

Last verified September 2025, next review January 2026.

Please note that despite our careful verification process, errors may still occur — email info@asinglemother.org with corrections and we respond within 72 hours.

Disclaimer

This guide is informational and not legal advice. Program rules, prices, and funding change. Always confirm current eligibility and availability with the agency or provider. Use the official links here to apply or call the numbers provided for assistance. For emergencies, dial 9‑1‑1 first.

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