Program providing free cell phones and internet to foster youth approved

The California Public Utilities Commision has approved a program that will provide free cell phones and internet access to youth in foster care.

The program will cost $22 million, but will give service to more than 30,000 youth between the ages of 13 and 26 in the foster care system.

Officials with the program say it will help bridge what they call the “digital divide” by giving access to newer communications and services to low-income people.

Supporters say those in foster care do not have as much digital connection as others their age, and they are more likely to be unemployed or homeless when they grow up.

The program is expected to start in the next eight weeks.