PRINCETON, MO — GRM Networks and SCC Networks understand the pressures placed on our customers during these uncertain times. In an effort to assist customers in need, GRM Networks and SCC Networks secured federal CARES Act funds through a state of Iowa program. This program awards $500 to new Internet subscribers in GRM Networks’ or SCC Networks’ Iowa exchanges.
Per the program guidelines, set forth by the state of Iowa, the funds are only available to new Internet customers who have not had 25/3 megabits per second (Mbps) Internet service since July 20 of this year and who meet certain other criteria established by the grant. As required by the grant, existing Internet customers of both companies are not eligible because they either already have 25/25 Mbps Internet, or their location cannot get speeds of at least 25/3 Mbps.
Individuals who receive the grant award must use the money for Internet service. The grant award could provide up to six months additional service, depending on the speed package ordered. This grant award could also be paired with the companies’ current Internet promotion for new Internet customers which gives one month free – or two months free to households with a student.
If customers are awarded CARES Act funds, the full amount of the award will be credited to the customer’s account. GRM Networks and SCC Networks will not receive the money from the state of Iowa until December 2020, however, the customer will receive the value of the grant immediately.
Residents who think their household might be eligible for CARES Act funds should review the following requirements set forth by the program administrators to evaluate their eligibility.
The customer must be able to obtain speeds of at least 25/3 Mbps at their location.
The customer must not qualify for, or participate in, Lifeline.
The customer must lack the ability to subscribe to 25/3 Mbps or greater Broadband without assistance from this grant, as a result of unemployment, business closure or other hardship related to the COVID-19 public health disaster emergency (for example, an urgent need for telehealth, telework or distance learning).
The customer must not have subscribed to 25/3 Mbps Broadband or greater since July 20, 2020, with GRM Networks, SCC Networks or another provider.
Individuals are urged to contact GRM Networks or SCC Networks immediately if they think their household may be eligible to participate in the CARES Act. The state of Iowa has capped the number of grant awards in each school district and the funds are awarded on a first come, first served basis. Customers who believe they may be eligible for the grant should contact GRM Networks at 800-551-1940 or SCC Networks at 800-782-7932. A customer service representative will assist customers with determining their eligibility.
GRM Networks® is a member owned cooperative that provides communication services to customers located within a 4,500 square mile area that covers 44 exchanges in Northern Missouri and Southern Iowa. GRM Networks is dedicated to delivering reliable, advanced communications technology while providing an exceptional customer experience. GRM Networks is committed to promoting and investing in its local communities. SCC Networks® is a subsidiary of GRM Networks. For more information about GRM Networks, visit www.grm.net.