Osage Nation Broadband Assistance Program Provides Free High-Speed Internet to Osages 55 and Older

Osage Broadband available to Osages 55 and older residing on the Osage Nation Reservation

OSAGE NATION RESERVATION, OKLA. (July 16, 2024) – The Osage Nation provides free high-speed internet to Osages 55 and older living on the Osage Nation Reservation (Osage County). The new program, administered by Osage Broadband, aims to enhance the quality of life and strengthen communication by providing affordable, high-speed Broadband Internet connectivity to their homes. This service allows access to communication with Osage Nation government programs, news, and telehealth appointments from home. 

Chief Geoffrey Standing Bear highlighted the collaborative effort of Osage Nation and its entities in implementing the program, stating, "Whether it's accessing our online language classes or a telehealth appointment, having access to high-speed internet is critical. This program is a testament to the teamwork of Osage Nation and our entities, working together to remove obstacles, enabling our people to access the tools they need to live healthier lives." 

Osage Nation Congressman Scott Bighorse sponsored the bill, which Chief Standing Bear signed into law on Thursday, July 11, 2024. 

"I know first-hand the challenges of finding an affordable high-speed internet provider here on the Reservation," said Congressman Bighorse. "Through the combined efforts of the Executive Branch, Legislative Branch, and Osage LLC, we have taken a massive stride to assist with this critical need. I am proud of our joint efforts to care for our people and excited to see how this improves the quality of life for many Osages and their families." 

Osage Broadband powered by AtLink, a subsidy of Osage LLC, will manage subscriptions with eligibility verification by the Osage Nation’s Financial Assistance Department. Eligible accounts may receive a monthly subsidy of $49.99 per household. The amount to subscribe to the Home Package (GO-100) equals $49.99 per month. The subscriber may elect a larger plan; however, the subscriber is responsible for the monthly amount exceeding $49.99. The monthly subsidy of $49.99 is applied to the eligible account for their subscribed plan.

“We are committed to delivering superior service, innovative technology, and exceptional customer support to ensure seamless online experiences for eligible Osages residing on the Osage Nation Reservation,” said Russell Goff, Osage LLC's Chief Executive Officer (CEO). “Having access to high-speed internet is going to improve the quality of life for many Osage families, which is central to the work we do at Osage LLC.” 

Applications are open now to all eligible Osages where broadband infrastructure is complete. To be eligible to participate in this program, the subscriber must meet the following criteria:

1. Be a legally enrolled member of the Osage Nation each month of assistance

2. Be at least 55 years of age

3. Reside within the Osage Reservation / Osage County, OK

4. Have an active account with Osage Broadband 

To apply, please visit www.osagebroadband.com. Not all interested parties will have access to broadband services until infrastructure is in place in their areas. However, all eligible Osages are encouraged to complete an interest form to be notified when services become available in their area. The interest form is available at www.osagebroadband.com. 

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