Are you unable to afford the cost of an internet plan, mobile phone, or other device? Do you need help or training to access the internet?
If you answered yes to either of these questions, then there may be help available. Community programs and services can connect you with the devices and training you need to get online.
The internet and mobile devices are tools that can help you:
- connect with loved ones,
- access food, medications, or healthcare,
- stay up to date on current events,
- get what you need in a crisis,
- gain valuable information,
- stay in touch with friends and family via social media
- learn a new hobby
- access supports (like emergency government funding),
- manage your money,
- stream a favourite show,
- play games that keep your mind sharp or help pass the time
- listen to music or a podcast
- get an education or employment
- and more!
You can access the internet with:
- a home desktop computer,
- laptop,
- tablet,
- a tv that is a smart device, or
- a mobile phone (cell phone) that is a smart device.
Reduced cost internet and cell phones
Telus’ Mobility for Good® and Rogers’(together with Shaw) Connected for Success are some of the programs that offer free or discounted smartphones, mobile plans, high-speed internet, and tv bundles. You can also contact other providers in your area to discuss available supports.
People who may qualify for internet, tv, and mobile phone plans for free or at a reduced rate are:
| Free smartphone and mobile plan (Telus’ Mobility for Good) | Discounted smartphone and mobile plan (Telus’ Mobility for Good) | Low-cost high-speed internet and tv bundles (Rogers’ Connected for Success) | Low-cost mobile plan with smartphone or ‘bring your own device’ (Rogers’ Wireless Connected for Success) | |
| Youth who have lived in care |
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| Adults aged 65 or older receiving the Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS) |
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| People receiving support from the Social Assistance Program |
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| People receiving housing support from NB Housing |
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| People receiving support from the Resettlement Assistance Program (RAP) |
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| People living with a disability |
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| Families living on a low income |
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Help accessing technology and learning how to get online?
A variety of organizations can help you get connected, including:
- Ability NB helps people with a disability access donated computers from a national program, Computers for Schools. Email info@abilitynb.ca or call 1-866-462-9555.
- Neil Squire Society helps people with disabilities improve their computer skills. Email nb.info@neilsquire.ca or call 1-866-446-7999.
- Public libraries provide public access to computers and the internet. They may also offer courses to help you learn how to use technology. Contact your local library for more information.
- Vision Loss Rehabilitation NB provides training and information for people with vision loss on the use of smart devices, computers, and assistive technology (such as screen readers and magnification for reading.) Some help with obtaining equipment is also available. Email infoNB@vlrehab.ca or call 1-844-887-8572.
- New Brunswick Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services Inc. (NBDHHS) provides information, support, and training to assist people who are deaf or hard of hearing. Email operationsdirector@nbdhhs.com or call 506-633-0599, ext. 4.
- The New Brunswick Association for Community Living provides support to individuals with a disability who want to access technology. Email nbacl@nbnet.nb.ca or call 1‑866‑NBACL‑4U.
- Connected Canadians volunteers support older adults with various technology challenges, including setting up and using email, how to video chat, and use social media. Email info@connectedcanadians.ca for more information.
- Association francophone des aînés du Nouveau-Brunswick provides video tutorials for older adults who want to learn more about online tools such as Zoom (French only.)
- Ability411 answers questions and provides information about technology and equipment for older adults (English only.)
- Internet service providers may provide access to refurbished devices at little or no cost, as well as technology support. Reach out to a provider in your area to ask about available supports.
