The “Free Government Phone” program.  What would Jesus think?
Yes, you can get a free government cell phone – if you are already on a low income support program such as SNAP (Food Stamps), Medicaid, SSI, veterans pension and survivors benefit programs , some tribal-specific programs or 135% below federal poverty guidelines.  You can also get phone service at $9.25 per month on a very limited basis.  The cell phone can be some android models, but not I-Phones. 

The program was actually started during the Reagan Administration in 1985 to ensure that all Americans had access to basic phone service.  Of course over the years, basic phone service has come to mean something much different than it was then.  The program is funded by the telecommunications companies who then pass the cost to consumers.  (Source for this information:  “Lifeline Program for Low-Income Consumers” from the Federal Communications Commission.)

For reflection:  is phone service a basic human need today?  If Jesus’ disciples were living  today, would they need cell phones? 

Interested in joining the Peace and Justice Ministry?  Call Saralou Hendrickson at 314-440-2020.