Comcast kicks off Internet access program in Va

RICHMOND, Va. -- Comcast Corp. is kicking off the second year of a program aimed at making sure low-income families in Virginia have Internet access.

Company executives are joining officials from the Federal Communications Commission and local leaders in Richmond on Thursday to launch the program.

The program offers low-cost home Internet service, a voucher to help buy a computer, and access to free training on digital literacy.

To date, more than 1,800 families in Virginia have been connected to the Internet through the program.

Officials say Internet access is important for students and families to help close the digital divide.

Comcast is working with several organizations to promote the program in Virginia, including Big Brothers and Big Sisters, Boys and Girls Clubs, the Urban League and the Virginia Hispanic Chamber of Commerce.