Push On To Raise Awareness Lifeline, Link-up Programs



Push On To Raise Awareness Lifeline, Link-up Programs
The Tennessee Regulatory Authority (TRA) formally partnered with the Tennessee Organization of School Superintendents (TOSS) and the Tennessee Department of Education to raise awareness of the Lifeline and Link-up federally mandated telephone assistance programs.

“According to the latest report from the Tennessee Department of Education Kids Count State of the Child in Tennessee 2008, 415,009 children were eligible for free lunch in Tennessee during the 2006 - 2007 school years while 298,166 children participated in that same year. That clearly means that the families of those children that participated in the free lunch program as well as the eligible children could greatly benefit from an approximate $160 in annual savings through the Lifeline discount program. Such savings could make it a little easier to maintain telephone service to reach teachers, principals and other resources that can enhance their quality of life,” says TRA Chairman Sara Kyle.

Deputy Commissioner Greene stated that they will soon begin the process to send notifications home with all children in the 136 Tennessee school districts. The TRA will also present to representatives of school superintendents in an upcoming meeting with the Department of Education the Lifeline and Link-up telephone assistance programs.

The State Attorney General Bob Cooper who joined the partnership endeavor with the TRA early on stated “The Consumer Advocate in my office strongly supports these programs.” said Attorney General Robert E. Cooper.

“For those who qualify, this service can make a big difference by providing the daily connection to family and community as well as the crucial link to police, fire, schools, and other essential services.”

Others that represented the partnership collaboration along with TRA Chairman Sara Kyle, included TRA Directors Mary W. Freeman, Kenneth C. Hill and Eddie Roberson, Department of Education Deputy Commissioner Robert C. Greene, Attorney General Bob Cooper, and Dr. Keith Brewer of TOSS. All encouraged those that believe that they qualify or know of someone that could qualify to contact their local telephone service provider.

Also they may contact the TRA at 800.342.8359 or visit the TRA’s website at