i guess who the "target" market is changes on our perspective. so, if you think "the poor" are undeserving hoodlums or baby-mama's then i can see why you would think this is a bad idea.

i work in long-term care, so i immediately thought of elders really benefiting from this type of service - kind of like the lifeline, "I've fallen and I can't get up" system. also, it is not like these folks are getting a premium verizon plan, it is very BASIC service of 68 minutes per month, and is designed to be used for emergencies or urgent needs, not for idle chit-chat.

Also, it's not funded by taxpayers...
From Reuters: http://www.reuters.com/article/pressRelease/idUS181753+05-Feb-2009+BW20090205

The Funding of Lifeline

Lifeline is part of the Low Income Program of the Universal Service Fund (USF),
which is administered by the Universal Service Administrative Company (USAC) and
is designed to ensure that quality telecommunications services are available to
low-income customers at just, reasonable, and affordable rates. 1700 carriers
are eligible to provide the program but TracFone is the first pre-paid company
to have elevated the program to modern day communications.

The Lifeline program is not funded from federal taxpayer dollars, but rather
from contributions to the USF by telecommunications carriers collected in part
from the Universal Service Charge billed to cell phone users. Instead of a
discount on the user's monthly bill, SafeLink applies the USF subsidy to free
wireless minutes. Although a common misconception, TracFone provides the free
wireless cell phone to the SafeLink program at the company`s expense, in order
to make the program viable and attractive.

Sorry Tam, actually it is because those "contributions" have tax implications. It's not "direct" dollar-to-dollar funding.

It's sooooooo clever that people will miss this.

"The Universal Service Administrative Company (USAC) is an independent, not-for-profit corporation designated as the administrator of the federal Universal Service Fund by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC)"

This is why the webiste has to say, "created by the government" because it functions as an arm the FCC.

And who provides for the FCC? Tax payers. Saying that it's not funded by tax payers is spin. Keep digging the convoluted truth (i.e., tax shelter) comes to life.

Since there is NO market for this it must be some incentive to provide funds: tax breaks and perks.

Here's how this works: hey, you guys donate to this FCC program and maybe the FCC will look favorably on your requests in the future to expand you services. Hmmmm....ain't Washington great!

I like the spin though from the media. Many will be fooled by it.

Also, Tam because of the Telecommunications Act of 1996 which created this in the first place. Tax payers are TOTALLY footing the bill indirectly by companies raising there prices to cover the costs of contributions.

It's so sneaky.

Fair enough...

I still don't see how this is a bad thing. But then, I know that you and I fundementally disagree on the role of government, so take that as a rhetorical question... ;o)

What? Unbelievable......we haven't reached that level of craziness south of the border....thank God!

Yeah, I am not sure why all of you are so upset. Lifeline subsidizes a primary telephone line for poor people. So first, it isn't "free." Second, the Lifeline service has provided a subsidy for needed phone service to poor people for years. In many cases, the reduced cost phone service is literally a "lifeline" to be able to contact medical help, poison control, and the police, as well as providing the poor the benefit of reduced cost telephone service, to for example, look for a job, and stay in touch with family and friends.

I am sick and tired of all of these alleged "anti-government" people who point at subsidies that poor people get, and refuse to acknowledge the subsidies that they get. The road system. Gasoline infrastructure. Even telecommunications are heavily subsidized, including the internet, which receives taxpayer funding through extensive university participation in infrastructure.

So all the extension of the Lifline program to include cell phones does is recognize that for an increasing number of people, a cell phone is replacing a landline telephone as a primary home phone. Again, it isn't a "free cell phone." It is a subsidy for poor people for their primary home phone.

Anthony what are u doing today? I am gonna call u on my free lifeline phone in a few minutes.

Dave are u really serious? Bro, the phone (and it is free) may not be a big deal in the end. However u calling basic infrastructure like roads and gas as subsidies?... the same as things like a free cell phone?

Have u ever asked the ques what is the role of government? Maybe u r a commie or something but in no way shape or form is the role of government to make sure people have a F R E E that spells free, cell phone. Even the ad says, "call this # to get ur free cell phone!", not ur subsidized cell phone lol.

Whats next, "subsidized high-speed internet hookup" for every house in america? Is it our God given right to have any of this stuff or services?

I cant think of anyone who needs this cell phone, like they "need" to eat or what have u. ALso, who cant afford a cell phone in the longer term? I cant think of anyone that is of capable mind and able body who couldnt save a few months and buy a dadgum cell phone. The pay as u go kind? its 40 bucks off the bat w/no contract and u buy every minute off of a refresher card.

Lastly,If the "free" cell phone only gives u 67 min a month what type of work or calling around for work could ever get done on that plan. Ur point of helping people use this as a new land phone is invalid, its not designed for that. Its just a complete joke that the gov is helping errrrrrrrr giving people free luxury items such as cell phones, and on my dime too! Thats not anti-government thats anti-stupidity. DOnt take my $ or the $ of the people around me and then go give it to people that I dont even know for something like a cell phone. Honestly, I would rather go out and buy 5 cell phones for people it would benefit the most. However Government is doing what it does best, taking away incentive to be generous, pricing me out and having the people that the phones go to think they are 'free', like they were donated or something.

1. "Ur point of helping people use this as a new land phone is invalid, its not designed for that."

I think you mean to say, not that it is "invalid," which doesn't make any sense because I didn't make a deductive argument, but rather to say, that it isn't "true." But it is true. The lifeline program subsidizes one primary home phone, even if it is a cell phone: http://www.lifeline.gov/lifeline_Consumers.html

2. "However u calling basic infrastructure like roads and gas as subsidies?... the same as things like a free cell phone?"

Yes, that exactly what I'm saying. Do I think that it is government's role set up and maintain, at great expense to taxpayers, a luxury road system? I personally don't. It is comical to me to listen to so called "libertarians" complain about "Why don't they add 5 more lanes to the I-5"? So as long as the government is spending money on them, on roads, on petroleum infastructure (not to mention the massive costs of "protecting our interests" abroad), on giant subsidies to agri-business, well that's all fine. But a subsidy to poor people to have access to the telecommunications network (which is heavily subsidized by the government), why that's an outrage! So my point is, if you really are a libertarian, why pick on subsidies to the poor? Why aren't you all upset about Farm Subsidies, which mostly go to rich agricultural factory farms that don't really need them to the tune of 178 billion a year? Meanwhile, the lifeline program is mostly funded by the line item on your telephone bills (universal access), which the phone companies could pay for you out of their profits, but instead pass on to you.

3. On the issue of whether the phone is free-- Apparently TracPhone has found a way to offer the service within the subsidy amount, effectively providing it at no cost. However, that is with about 60 minutes of talk time a month. That's two minutes a day. I'm not sure you can really call that "free service." As to the phone itself, TracPhone is probably subsidizing most of the cost of the phone themselves, thinking that they will make up the cost on people buying airtime -- just like every other cell phone company. If you doubt this, stroll into a T-Mobile store and check out how much the prepaid phones are.

Dave B, if it's not "free" why does the website say this: "Through our Lifeline Service you will receive FREE cellular service, a FREE cell phone, and FREE Minutes every month! SafeLink Wireless Service does not cost anything � there are no contracts, no recurring fees and no monthly charges."

How is that not "free." Raising questions about government programs is not the same as being "anti-goverment." There're only a few true anarcho-capitalists out there in the world and I certainly ain't one of them. I don't mind paying taxes for the police, firefighters, the Army, etc.

1. Fine, it is free. You get about 60 minutes a month. Just like if you have a landline you can get a subsidy for a handset and for the connection fee (the "link-up program"). If TracPhone can provide a phone and limited service within the subsidy amount, then it will be provided at no cost. Like I said, TracPhone is probably providing a subsidy for the phone itself just like every other pre-paid cell phone company does thinking you will buy airtime, and at 60 minutes a month, you probably will be buying airtime.

2. Okay, you don't mind paying taxes. I never meant to imply that people opposed to the LifeLine program are anachists. By "anti-government" I meant people who enjoy these kind of "oh here goes big government again with another handout, wasting my tax money" stories.

So the question is, what should the government spend your tax money on? Okay, most people agree that emergency services and the military is a good thing to spend money on. But after that, we start to run into problems. My point is, that for most people, they don't consider the money the government spends on them to be a waste. For example, take all of the people who fled into the "suburbs." These people require miles and miles of roadway and utility systems, because they each need an acre of land evenly spread over hundreds of square miles. Should the county build roadways, and moreover pave them, to help these people out? I personally don't think so. Of course, if you are one of those people, you think, of course the government should.

I am just wondering why I hear so much about these "oh there government goes again stories" that are about subsidies to poor people, and so little about the 178 billion we hand away agri-business; or say the 700 billion to the banks.

To me, the lifeline program is a good program. What I'm considered about here, is not the subsidy to poor people, but instead the subsidy to TracPhone! 60 minutes of talk time isn't a lot.

oops ... that's "hand away TO agri-business"

and "What I'm CONCERNED about here"

And to clarify, I'm concerned that we aren't getting a good value for our money (only 60 minutes a month), that TracPhone isn't providing good enough service for the subsidy money they get.

nuts ... "ANARCHISTS" not "anachists". oh dear.

actually, it's not really new. It's been out at least since Aug. of 2008. Not everyone is well to do or even modest to afford phone service. I'm sure there are some very legitimate people for which this will greatly help them. certainly people will abuse it too, I'm sure. you take the good with the bad.

why as Christians do we say we want to serve and help people - no matter their plight - and then any initiative by government or other wise - if it's not instigated by the church we criticize it?

John,

Because, many Christians really aren't intersted in serving or helping people unless they deserve it and only if that help falls into parameters that "the church" can control and sanction, regardless of whether it actually help people in need.

In otherwords, they are far from selfess and have very little concept of unconditional love or service.

Generosity with other people's money is not a virtue. It's theft.

So true Abraham.

Anthony,
In your last paragraph you say that "Capitalism is bad". Isn't that what has made the USA the wealthy country that it is? What economic system would be an improvement?
Also,I don't think one has to be "anti-government" to realize that our federal government is totally out of control, and that it is time for Americans to hold Congress, etc., accountable. This country has gone nuts, and yes, Obama is buying votes.

Hey Dave I was writing off the cuff and made a wrong conclusion by saying that something was "invalid" instead of false. Well you cant freaking spell and who gives an eff either way. This is a blog, not a dissertation. lol

Bro, thanks for admitting its FREE. Now was that so hard to do? Its amazing u get so jacked up over a free phone. Its absurd that people get free crap like this. There is no principal short of some pseudo- communism/Marxism/socialism that could be argued for from a governmental standpoint that would justify this.

Farm subsidies... errrrrrr the biggest scam/joke/ subsidy ever isnt the point here. Why cant u socialist leaning people understand that if I hate a dumb cell phone subsidy that doesnt mean I must like all the other subsidies? U created the biggest straw man ( is that right?) here b/c u r the one saying that Anthony or these so called "anti-government" people are ok w/ the road, petrol, or farm subsidies but never speak out against it. Instead we pick on subsidies to the poor. But no one ever said we/he dont speak out on those things or that we are ok w/ subsidies per-se. SO dont pin that stuff on those of us that think this phone thing is a joke. I/we probably think a lot of other things are a joke too.

Hey Tam stop calling names and making ridiculous claims. WTF are u talking about the church acts like that? What? lol... what church is this and where is this widespread if u actually do find 1. Its Not the Catholic church on the whole, I have never been to one protestant or Pentecostal church that acts like that. Seriously if u could enlighten me w/ facts on what churches do this, I am all ears.

Stork - Those claims are based on my experience in more conservative, evangelical churches over the last 5 years that I have been in that culture. I've seen my fair share of churches that claim they want to serve folks, but they actually want to evangelize them. Or, that reach out to help people either, in their immediate community or the community as a whole, but are completely ill-equiped, uninterested or judgemental when people present brokenness in ways that are raw or aren't easily changed with a prayer and Bible study. Or, just the latent theme that those who are in poverty are pathological and need to be *saved* from their ways, rather than supported and loved through their circumstance..

This is what I have seen when I stepped into the evangelical Christian world, and it has what has distanced me from it as well. So no, they are not "ridiculous claims". Maybe be you are too close to see what this relative outsider has seen...

Ur right they arent ridiculous. I appreciate ur take and have met people like u describe. But people in the "church" arent like this. Some yes. but the majority no and to say otherwise other than ur "personal" evidence is a very harsh brush to be stroking with.

I still dont know why someone like u could look to an even worse institution w/ no no moral obligation to its people like the Government. The faceless Gov is the absolute worse. People (assuming they are Christians) at least have hope of being reconciled to Christ and his teachings. You might be able to change some of your brethren minds on these issues. The Gov doesnt have any moral compass other than the one the people that make it up ascribe to it. This is why however bad the church is we are obligated to literally give of ourselves. The Gov can never "give" anything. It can only take from one and give to the whole or an individual in its society. There is no hope of ever reconciling a faceless gov. There is hope in reconciling people to Christ, and hopefully all gov officials to some sort of natural law benevolence (made up phrase). BTW, I am the biggest outsider of all. So I am not to close to the church. I agree w/ u totally on the "we love u only if u say this prayer right, stop living w/ ur significant other and dont go to that bar anymore" syndrome. I just think the Church on the whole is still the greatest benevolent force ever unleashed upon the earth. Set up by our Creator and Savior to be his bride and to bring love and peace to this earth as best as possible. We are the worlds only hope. Outside of Christ (and his Church/us) there is no hope for mankind and the Gov is the biggest waster of time and $ when it tries to play the role of God, benevolent or other.

p.s I know ant and most readers will prob differ on me theologically (coming from a reformed backgroud) here but maybe thats a diff point altogether

Here in Chicago, any cell phone will dial 911 or 311 (line for non-emergency city services). Seems like a more manageable way to provide the same service~

Local non profits try to collect old phones (with chargers) and pass them out to shut-ins. . .

I NEED A PHONE BECAUSE I RECEIVE DISABILITY

I NEED A PHONE BECAUSE I RECEIVE ASSISTANCE FROM DSS SUCH AS FOODSTAMPS MEDICAID HELP WITH THE RENT

Hi my name is stan marshll and i need this phone for personal things only such as for when i look 4 jobs and no one can contact me i am 20 years old with a 11 month old baby and if she get sick how could i call 4 help

I AM A HANDICAP IN WHEELCHAIR LIVE ALONE CAN USE PHONE FOR EMERGEMCES

ineed cellphone because coundtpay for cellphone, i dessabled , live in housing authority, resivefood stamps , and medicaid and medicare. no onderstand what is url ;

ineed cellphone because coundtpay for cellphone, i dessabled , live in housing authority, resivefood stamps , and medicaid and medicare. no onderstand what is url ;

ineed cellphone because coundtpay for cellphone, i dessabled , live in housing authority, resivefood stamps , and medicaid and medicare. no onderstand what is url ;

favor no permitir numero de ss salga al publico. gracias . isabel.

I need a cell phone because I am an 80 y/o man with Medicaid, Medicare, and Food Stamps. I live alone and cannot afford to pay a cell phone bill every month because I do not have enough money. Please help me with delicate matter. Thank you for your prompt attention. Alfredo Miranda.

Stan no joke. Do u really need a cellphone?

For all who are opposing the safelink service of providng a free phone with minimum minutes for usage and intended for emergencies are obviously speaking from the lifestyle in which they have been fortunate enough to have and not from an open minded perspective. We do not all have family or reasonable income to care for us when we become elders and unfortunately there are many lonely, sick elders just trying to survive each day as it comes. Governement provides them with financial help but trust me it is enough to just barely get by. I am an active nurse and have dealt with many elders in situations where if they had a cell phone to make an emergency call could have avoided a health related downfall!! Its just like people to ask but not to give!The intentions of this service are for the GOOD. Im sorry the see that your minds are always in the gutter and because of your selfish and political views ... your taking away from someone who possibly might be yourself...life isnt always as sweet when your old and helpless!

YES I NEED A CELL PHONE I DON'T HAVE A JOB I'VE BEEN WAITING FOR MY SSI SSDI FOR 2 YEARS NOW AND STILL NO INFO ON MY CASE.

Robert u havent had a cell phone for two years?

If u really need one I may be able to help out. I would have to get more info but I have some phones.

Why havent u gone to a lawyer yet?

why this programis not for every small town, i can no longer worker and have no income, i get foodstamps and medicade. this is not right for the program to be offer in some places

fuck that bull shyt

After reading all these comments, I am left laughing! The Government's role was never meant to be the savior of the people. Of course there are elderly people who could benefit from the phone just as there are poor people who could benefit. The problem is that every "need" in life is relevant. What I consider a need might be a luxury to someone else. Relevance. The argument about the roads, etc. also doesn't make sense. Roads and bridges are a part of the country's infrastructure, which is the Government's job. Making sure I have a cell phone in case of an emergency is not. That is the job of local community organizations such as churces and charities. Their money is gained by voluntary donations, not "involuntary" donations to my cell phone bill. Anyone who argues that the Government is not expanding and over-reaching is simply playing ignorant. What they have done to the banks and the auto industry is far beyond anything the Government was intended to do. Here are two definitions (official, not mine) of Socialism: "A political theory advocating state ownership of industry", and "An economic system based on state ownership of capital". These definitions are from Princeton.edu. The banking industry and the auto industry fill these two definitions to a "tee". It is a fact that the Government now has ownership in banks (capital) and the auto companies (industry).

The problem with this whole argument is that neither side will ever win. You aren't going to change my mind and I won't ever change yours. I am not an activist. I am not an extremist. I am just tired of having my tax money wasted and watching my Government get involved in things it should leave alone. There is a reason why almost every state in the union has either passed or is passing legislation reaffirming their "State's Sovereignty" rights - i.e. the Federal Government needs to deal with federal issues only. Nothing I have said here is speculation, it can all be researched and backed up. I also know that this comment will be slammed by someone who is unimformed but I understand that people like that can't be taught anyway. They prefer to remain ignorant in the ways and doings of the world. I never take anything at face value, however, I check out what I hear and read and disregard the BS.

A little know fact is that an old cellphone which is no longer is service can be used to call 911.

I recently got a new phone and after the service to the old one was discontinued I dialed 911 to make sure, and the 911 operator answered.

Most people have old cellphone that they can give someone.

I need a cell phone for emergency reason and for jobs.

I am so happy that I applied at safelink wireless for my "free" phone with "free"airtime!That $14.99 phone that has been outdated since two days after it was released,is such a luxury!Think about it!60 minutes=1 hour and that's what is the featured "free" airtime.How long does it usually take on a call to make an important doctor appointment?That's if there are any doctors that will even provide care to the unfortunate ones living below poverty level?

Do you very fortunate upper class/upper middle class"taxpayers"not have a heart or the smallest of sympathy for the people that were forced into living below poverty?

Here's what you overpaid super judgmental bashers of the lower class should do:1.loosen that tie just a little! 2.unbutton that top button of that $100 shirt 3.Walk over to Starbucks or whatever trendy lil place that you get your "needs"and boost your ego there,while driving the little man into the ground!4.Walk back over to your office and kick those $300 shoes up on your desk and wait on that big salary and try not to be that little man when your boss walks in and throws karma all over your ass!

I'm a 28 year old(now"disabled")working class man that paid taxes since I was emancipated in 1996.Worked for the Army and Air Force Exchange Service under the DOD until I bettered myself.There's my little ego trip!My head was crushed(7 skull fractures)and I suffer with frontal and temporal lobe brain injuries for the rest of my life,thanks to a greedy egotistical upper class BMW driving lower class basher!!After a 16 minute death and waking from a 5 month coma,not getting the proper treatment or therapy for 3 years and bedridden for 1,I didn't really need the"luxury"of that"free"cell phone then,did I?Have a heart and think about someone that wasn't born with that silver spoon in hand,that you still carry!!You reap what you sow!!Keep sowing bad thoughts on the poor and see what it brings you!I'll lend you a few minutes on my"free"phone so you can call your loved ones,while you're getting used to living at the bottom!!

I am so happy that I applied at safelink wireless for my "free" phone with "free"airtime!That $14.99 phone that has been outdated since two days after it was released,is such a luxury!Think about it!60 minutes=1 hour and that's what is the featured "free" airtime.How long does it usually take on a call to make an important doctor appointment?That's if there are any doctors that will even provide care to the unfortunate ones living below poverty level?

Do you very fortunate upper class/upper middle class"taxpayers"not have a heart or the smallest of sympathy for the people that were forced into living below poverty?

Here's what you overpaid super judgmental bashers of the lower class should do:1.loosen that tie just a little! 2.unbutton that top button of that $100 shirt 3.Walk over to Starbucks or whatever trendy lil place that you get your "needs"and boost your ego there,while driving the little man into the ground!4.Walk back over to your office and kick those $300 shoes up on your desk and wait on that big salary and try not to be that little man when your boss walks in and throws karma all over your ass!

I'm a 28 year old(now"disabled")working class man that paid taxes since I was emancipated in 1996.Worked for the Army and Air Force Exchange Service under the DOD until I bettered myself.There's my little ego trip!My head was crushed(7 skull fractures)and I suffer with frontal and temporal lobe brain injuries for the rest of my life,thanks to a greedy egotistical upper class BMW driving lower class basher!!After a 16 minute death and waking from a 5 month coma,not getting the proper treatment or therapy for 3 years and bedridden for 1,I didn't really need the"luxury"of that"free"cell phone then,did I?Have a heart and think about someone that wasn't born with that silver spoon in hand,that you still carry!!You reap what you sow!!Keep sowing bad thoughts on the poor and see what it brings you!I'll lend you a few minutes on my"free"phone so you can call your loved ones,while you're getting used to living at the bottom!!

man so many angry people over free safelink phone i betcha by golee woo its the rich folks whom nbever ever give an opt to the poor folks in need this is a fabulois service of which i adquire and am very happy to continur recivng this is a fantastic program why be angry anger is such a wasted energy thank you to all the tax payer whom fund this free cell im greatfull to u all and the company above all ill as im icannot afford a cell this si free nad i bow down to safelink wireless thanks u so so smuch

I like the idea of free phone service, CAUSE I AM ONE OF THE PEOPLE WHO NEED IT! I need a phone for potential job offers to call back. I am dirt poor because I havn't found work yet. So I think this is a great idea for those of us that are trying and NEED the help! Too bad if ur friend is messing up the system. TURN HIM IN!!!! He makes it hard for those of us that actually do need the help. But THAT doesn't give u the right to bad mouth every individual that actually needs programs like this. It IS a good idea, and u are very narrow minded to be so easily swayed by the fool YOU call a FRIEND and to sit there complaining about him with no intent to ACTUALLY stop him from draining the money that FAMILIES actually need! Personally, I love Obama. It's the first time I actually feel like a president gives a dam about the blue collor community, THE POOR! I'm not just a plague to society in this one's eyes! So screw u, u ELITIST!!

I like the idea of free phone service, CAUSE I AM ONE OF THE PEOPLE WHO NEED IT! I need a phone for potential job offers to call back. I am dirt poor because I havn't found work yet. So I think this is a great idea for those of us that are trying and NEED the help! Too bad if ur friend is messing up the system. TURN HIM IN!!!! He makes it hard for those of us that actually do need the help. But THAT doesn't give u the right to bad mouth every individual that actually needs programs like this. It IS a good idea, and u are very narrow minded to be so easily swayed by the fool YOU call a FRIEND and to sit there complaining about him with no intent to ACTUALLY stop him from draining the money that FAMILIES actually need! Personally, I love Obama. It's the first time I actually feel like a president gives a dam about the blue collor community, THE POOR! I'm not just a plague to society in this one's eyes! So screw u, u ELITIST!!

you would have to contaced me by e-mail because i have no phone and i am working with mrs to gat a job to

If this program is to help people with low income, why is extremely difficult for the person that truly needs the phone to get the phone? I work for elderly section 8 housing, I have been faxing, mailing and even completing enrollment forms via the computer, and the only response the residents are getting from Reach out wireless is we did not get your fax. In my opinion this Government wireless program is being ran poorly.

The SafeLink Wireless program is under the Federal Communications Commission's Lifeline program, which was created in 1984 to ensure landline phone accessibility to rural and poor communities. Lets see...who was president? God? Nope but pretty close when chatting about politics....yup, the big RR.

Anyhoo...do we seriously have a problem with the poor, disabled, or elderly having a very basic cellphone/plan intended for emergencies? Really?

I think we can all agree our problem is with fraud, waste, and the criminal elements of such programs.

Is it not a tad bit embarrassing when the "I'm proud to be an Americans!" so vehemently fight down any measure/legislation aimed at helping other Americans? Hypocritical even?

As for the annoyingly, overstated, self proclaimed best nation on the planet....why do we hate to even help each other? If tax payer money resulted in a more educated, healthier, more secure America....is that not better for EVERY American?

I just wish the debates focused on ways to ensure government accountabllity, limit waste/fraud in federal entitlement programs, and promote innovative strategies for all Americans to help Americans.

Sending out free phone for the so call needy ones was a bad idea, I think. The so called needy ones really don't need the phone they are just trying to beat the system and get free stuff. Some women get the phone and give it to their boyfriends so they can stay in touch with them then they walk around like everything is gravy. I have a couple of guys that work with me walk around with a government phone everyday when they know it is wrong because they have a good job and have no kids. I know there's plenty people that is beating system for other stuff, such as foodstamps, I have a problem with that. If we can get out there and work our butts off to get what we want instead of waiting for a hand out they can, too.

How can I get a cell phone for my brother who lives in a nursing facility?

I find it funny that many people are so animated when the money paid on taxes go back to helping its fellow man versus in a politicians pocket. You can complain until you are blue in the face, but this country was founded with a for the people by the people principle. Since our founding fathers didn't receive help from the government they came up with a constitution to ensure that help was available for those in need. So you can cry about a free phone it won't change what is already done.

i think anyone getting a free phone that i have to pay for needs to take a piss in a cup befor they ever see it!!!!!!!

I need a free cell phone I'm Disabled

i need a phone i cant call anybody in case of an anmergegency

I would like to receive a cell phone @ 2029 washington blvd Tallassee ala 36078

please give me a phone for emergency

I'm having problems with one of the gov. free phone service website(www.reachoutwireless.com)I've try all the sites listed but can find this site.
Please help me to link to this site.

Sadly, people are misusing this post. On a forum I participate in someone posted a link to this article, inferring that this program was instituted by the Obama Administration - further "evidence" of their "socialist" agenda. In truth, this program started under Reagan and was updated to wireless in the mid-1990's.

Rural exchange surcharges and their abuse are a substantially bigger financial abuse of Americans.

how can i receive a free phone

I am on government assistance HUD, FOOD STAMPS, SSD. How do I get a free CELL PHONE?

My husband and I would qualify for this program and I even think it's rediculous. If someone is truly poor enough to need government assistance, that someone also has established a support system. There's free phone through the internet, and you can get free internet almost anywhere you can eat now (you don't even have to buy anything).
Beside that point, Christians aren't supposed to aid temptation. By paying for some of these cell phones, we are enabling bad habbits. But I would certainly let one less fortunate use my phone in a heart beat.
True... in the grand scheme it's really nothing... but it's the fact that it's hidden. That this government agency is twisting to seem like it's not tax money . That is what really is getting to people.

THIS PROGRAM IS NOT FUNDED AT ALL BY THE GOVERNMENT. CHECK OUT THE ACTUAL WEBSITE (LINK ABOVE) AND IT CLEARLY SAYS THE PROGRAM IS NOT FUNDED BY THE GOVERNMENT.

Well, let's see public housing, food stamps, free heat & electric. reduced prices for computers, and the hits keep on rolling.Did any minorities ever hear of a HARD DAYS WORK! instead, lets sell dope on street corners pimp their ass on another corner, go out and party and leave their children unattended. Oh yes it just keeps going & going, let's not forget they are poor or their Grandmama was a slave and so on. Wake-up America this is the 21st Century. This country will go broke withall the freebies a certain race keeps getting

I would like to recieve a phone

I need a phone to check up on my kids

I need a cell phone please.

why didnt i get my free minutes this month that u r suppose to get each month i was wondeing what do i do i dont have my pin number

i was wondering why i didnt get my other free minutes this month

i was wondering why i didnt get my other free minutes this month

i have trying to get a cell phone one our the gov, pohne a ferr pohne i have been in astron and long off i have my closes but fen said i have to be live in my house i what move in went the stron can and wahse a way my thing .

what do i have to do to get help for fen our a gov loan
thank you my email is madisonferriday@aol.com

My phone number is and is unable to get through to toll free customer service 1-877-870-9222. I am on foodstamps government assisted program. I did not receive my 50 minutes which you promised I would on the 1st, 3rd, or 7th of December. In the meanwhile, I am being charged 20 cents per minute. I should be getting free minutes automatically added to the phone each month. What happened? What is a pin number? How do I use a pin number I do not have?

Please email me at phyllpat_99@yahoo.com. My name is Phyllis Ostrov.

HAHAHAHAHA...wow. It's hard to leave my incredulity at a simple "wow," and not let it progress to sarcasm after seeing some of these comments.

single mom need a phone to check on kids.

wow i think it's great i'm a single mom working and going to school i like having a phone to call doctors offices and hospitals when i have an emergency it's not like it used to be when there were pay phones everwhere the closest one is 20 miles away.

need a cell phone to call my doctors office

please let me have a free cellphone to talk to my doctors

need help

I need a cell phone because I want to contact potential
employers about jobs, because I'am currently unemployed.

Say you�re a big corporation like a phone company. What�s the difference if you make charitable donations to needed causes in the form of cash, or in the form of your product and services? There is no difference.

This is no different than seeing our neighborhood grocery stores donating cases of food to local food pantries.

Banks donate money to charities and the MDA telethon. Once in a great while, you here about car dealers that donate wheel chair vans to the needy.

If a corporation wants to donate or give away money, product, or services �GREAT! Who are we to stand in the way? They can use their profits any way they choose.

In the matter of free cell phones, I agree with this activity. I feel every home should be able to have the ability to call for help if needed.

For example, a home living in poverty has a small child choking on some food and the child is turning blue. Having one of these free cell phones would enable the parent to call for help; �otherwise without a phone in this home, the results could be very scary.

I applaud this idea, and I take my hat off to large corporations that can do things like this with their profits.

how do i get the free phone?????

my phone go,s to service required every time i turn off for church service.please help with this defect.i am in the job search mode.

my phone go,s to service required every time i turn off for church service.please help with this defect.i am in the job search mode.

My antenna fell off somewhere and my phone won't work. What can I do can I get a new phone or can I mail it somewhere to fix it>
Lori Martin

In no way could I make myself seem less intelligent. Goodness.

THIS IS A BLOG POST, PEOPLE, AND IN NO WAY CONNECTED TO THE GOVERNMENT HANDOUT YOU'RE GETTING! Go elsewhere and seek fixes for your issues.

Joe, you're speaking foolishly. When corporations use tax dollars to fund their actions, there is exactly ZERO about that act that is charitable. Zero.

hi

HOW CAN I GET A FREE CELL PHONE.

yes i would like to try out this new phone and minutes free

Please send me more information
would like to get a phone for my mom.
Thank you Tina

I am on Medicare due to the illness Multiple Sclerosis. I am paying way too much for land line service and would benefit from getting a free cell phone if I qualify. Please let me know what I need to do.

Thank you.

HOW DO I GET ONE PLEASE LET INFORM ME THANK YOU DIONE !

This amazes me. When did it become a right to have a cell phone? My mom is 67 this year and she pays for her own cell phone. Why should anyone get something like this for free? Its deplorable. This kind of thinking is what has caused us to be in the situation that we are with the housing bubble and home prices. Everybody does not have a right to own their own home. Some people have no business owning their own home yet the government forced banks to lend money to people who could barely fog a mirror. This sucks!

If you want a cell phone and any of your family members has one, you can get one added for just $10 per month. Why does anyone need to have a cell phone paid for by the government? We've become a nation of mooches, wanting others to take care of us. Its time for people to take responsible for themselves.

you ever think about people that have degrees and lost there jobs due to the economy and still can find work because the economy people with large families that just cant make ends meet because of the government you ever think about them trying to make a right for the people that was hit very hard and need that little bit of help yeah its not much but damn cant we work together eve if that means a little leaves your paycheck that you get back every year during tax returns wish people wouldnt look at as if someone is stealing form them look at it as helping your country and your neighboor it should be a good feeling just incase one day you will need a helping hand

Wow - a free cell phone with free minutes. Wonder how that works? Do illegal immigrants get them too? It seems like we could use the money more wisely...maybe in getting more police on the street for example.

I wnt to find out hoe to get a lifeline cell phone

I think what you are doing will be a great help and benefit many peoples in this world who had no kind of cell phone in case of emergency to get to a doctor or call a policeman for help.

i really need a cell phone so people can get intouch with me if my daughter is sick or something.

My father and his five brothers and one sister along with my mothers family all died before age 65. They paid into Social Security and didn't have retirment or 401k's. I worked many years before becoming disabled, raised my daughter and filed and refiled for disability. I cannot afford a land line or internet. Increasingly even news reports are instructing us that if we want more info go to their website. I know many people who do not have phone and this 50 minutes is not a lot. Many people have paid into the government and deserve some charity of some sort. I apologize for being epileptic, broke and in need.

hey good people...anyone willing 2 give a free phone if u doesn't use...i wanted an i phone n ave tried to save money but lyk iz so complicated...ill appreciate if u gave me as a gift.....thank u!

Hey my name is carla i need some help with mr brown doyle he live in my home and i work off alot and i need help paying a cell phone bill at i get for him so i can ceck on when i not home i paying for the phone right but do not have much longing i can do so i needso help.For mr Doyle is a vate and i think that we all own he the care that he need . his ssi check dose not go to fare. i help as much i as i can and work off dose not help my son and his wife look out for him when i not here but could you all help me we his phone

i receave foodstamps and medicade from the state of michigan and i was wondering if i could get one of them free phones so that i can have a phone so that the doctors can call me to let me know when she is going to have surgory on her mouth.

How canI get usa free cellphone and my address is 1108East Holly Street ,Goldsboro,nc.27530

I am78 yrs.old and I really can't afford any type of phone service, but free sounds wonderful, I hope you will consider my request for one . Thank you!!!

I'm sorry Idon't understand what this means(HTML TAGS) i'm not sure what they stand for!!!

hello, i need a cell phone becouse my boyfrined is gone so metimes till late or im gone and need to call him can you all help me thank you for your time.

I applied and got a free cell phone for my mother who is on social security and qualifies finacially for one. She received it in the mail and now they say she has to send it back because she doesn't qualify because she doesn't have to file income taxes each year. How many 79 year old people Do file income taxes? I think this is not fair to her not to be able to get a phone for her own safety.

I am on ssrd and have had 3 heart attacks need phone for communication thank you