KCRG TV news recently reported on a story about the Polk County sheriff's office free cell phone program whereby they give out free cell phones with only 911 capability for seniors to use in case of emergencies like accidents, medical emergencies, etc. These cell phones have been refurbished to only dial 911. The sheriff's department usually runs out of the free cell phones quickly because there is such a high demand for them.
Here's some good news for Iowa seniors and low income residents. Virgin Mobile's free government assisted cell phone program is now available in Iowa. These free cell phones are full fledged cell phones. They come with free monthly minutes that roll over from month to month. Applicants can apply to get a free cell phone and free monthly minutes at the website of Virgin Mobile's subsidiary company,
Assurance Wireless or call their toll free phone number for assistance (1.888.898.4888).
The qualifications vary from state to state, but typically if an applicant's income is at or below the state's poverty level, they will qualify. Also, an applicant who is already receiving assistance in another program like food stamp, SSI, etc. usually qualifies for a free cell phone and free monthly minutes.
Note: Don't confuse the Assurance Wireless free cell phone program with the SafeLink Wireless program. SafeLink is not yet (3/14/11) available in the state of Iowa, but Assurance Wireless is.
