Common Networks Connects Alameda Point Collaborative

Common Networks, the Bay Area-based wireless internet service provider (ISP), is now bringing discounted connectivity to 118 homes for the Alameda Point Collaborative (APC), the largest housing community for families that formerly experienced homelessness in Alameda. With stay-at-home orders, the need for high speed home internet becomes increasingly critical for at home learning, health guidelines and more.

However, until partnering with Common, many APC residents were unable to access a broadband connection. By building these connections from scratch and providing ultra high-speed internet at a reduced cost, Common is expanding internet access for at-risk communities that are only made more vulnerable by this pandemic.

“COVID-19 has truly exposed the divide in access to basic necessities, including high-speed internet access, across our country,” said Common Networks CEO and Co-Founder Grace Chen. “We founded Common on the belief that everyone should have a fast, accessible internet connection, and now we’re proud to partner with APC to provide families with resources they need most.”

Broadband connectivity critical for online learning

In addition to a general information gap due to lack of internet access, families living at APC have been faced with the “homework gap” — the difference in academic performance between students who have access to high-speed internet at home and those who don’t.

“Like many in low-income communities during these times, some members of the APC community lack access to broadband and the necessary tools to participate in online courses,” said APC Executive Director Doug Biggs. “We’re really excited for Common’s services, and our residents feel the same way.”

Resident Debra Young was among the first to receive the new service. “What they’re doing for the kids is really great,” shared Debra, “My granddaughter can communicate with her teachers now, and she’ll be able to get through school to make it into the next grade.” Fellow resident Lisa Alderson said “I’m very thankful. It’s a lot better than trying to use the hotspots that were first provided by APC. With those, Zoom wouldn’t work, but now with Common it does.”

About Common Networks

Common offers fast and reliable internet service throughout Alameda adn. Its most popular plan is just $39 per month, with no contracts, taxes, or hidden fees. The provider has recently received a surge in people switching for its upload speeds as fast as its download speeds for smooth video conferencing, unlimited data, and simple pricing.

Patch readers who sign up for service get their first month free when they sign up at common.net/patch-apc.

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