Comcast and Gov. Chris Gregoire are joining forces to bring broadband internet at a reduced cost to low income families in Washington.

The program, called Internet Essentials, is aimed at families who might not otherwise be able to afford broadband. To be eligible, families must live in Comcast’s service area, have at least one child on the federal free school lunch program and have not subscribed to Comcast internet in the past 30 days.

Qualifying families will receive service for $9.95 a month, free digital literacy training and a voucher to purchase a computer for $149.99. Families will receive the service for at least three years without price increases, equipment rental fees or activation fees.

"We live in a wired world," Gregoire said in a statement. "And those who don't have access to that world are at a real and growing disadvantage. With Internet at home, children can research and complete their homework, adults can seek new or better jobs, and families can explore the world together. I commend Comcast for undertaking this initiative, and encourage other businesses to find new and creative ways to help families succeed."

Expanding broadband access has been viewed as a top priority by the Federal Communications Commission, which regulates internet service providers. The U.S. ranks low on one list of broadband penetration and speed.

The University of Washington has embarked on an initiative with the City of Seattle to bring gigabit speeds to commercial areas of the city, like South Lake Union.