Best Internet Providers in Kansas City, MO

Kansas City Internet Resources for Low-Income Families

According to a report commissioned by Kansas City, the net effect of the digital divide is lower life expectancy on local residents. Since many employers now require online job applications, health insurance plans, and other services are moving to online-only access and schools increasingly rely on technology to educate children, the digital divide is leaving those without a working internet device vulnerable to a large host of problems. We don’t want any of our neighbors in the City of Fountains to fall behind — especially those who are low-income and already vulnerable — so we created the following guide to help you find affordable equipment, virtual child care services, and free Wi-Fi in the Kansas City area:

Discounted Distance Learning Devices in Kansas City

• PCs for People: PCs for People is a non-profit group delivering refurbished desktops, laptops, and other internet devices to low-income families. If you currently earn below the 200 percent poverty level or participate in a federal income-based assistance program, apply online or visit the Kansas City location for in-store prices ranging from $0 to $100.
• Kansas City Public Schools: To ensure every child succeeds academically and reaches his or her full potential, the Kansas City Public Schools system provides each student in the district with a free Chromebook. Contact your school for more information and read this Educational Technology Support guide to learn how to set up your device when you bring it home.

For even more ways to get your hands on an affordable laptop, desktop, or tablet, visit a verified retailer selling refurbished or recycled items. The following are some of these businesses in the Kansas City area:

• Computers To Go
• B.E.Tek Computers
• Laptops KC

Remote Learning Programs and Virtual Child Care Centers in Kansas City

• The National Museum of Toys and Miniatures: This place is almost any child’s dream come true. Home to the world’s largest collection of fine-scale miniatures and one of the largest collections of toys, the National Museum of Toys and Miniatures nurtures children’s creativity and curiosity for play. Kids can browse the toy collections and attend virtual events completely free of charge, though registration is necessary for some of the events.
• Kansas City Zoo: The Kansas City Zoo is home to more than 1,300 wildlife animals. They provide plenty of online activities and resources, including a species directory and several animal cameras all for free!
• Kansas City Public Library: The Kansas City Public Library promotes learning and discovery among kids of all ages. The Virtual Branch offers free online resources such as audiobooks, educational apps, and, of course, plenty of e-books. Visitors can enjoy access to these virtual services when they sign up for an eCard, available immediately.
• National WW1 Museum and Memorial: The National WW1 Museum and Memorial is the nation’s most renowned institution committed to remembering the Great War and its impact on the world community. The website features plenty of virtual tours and exhibitions available for free, including collections about the trenches, the Armistice, and much more.
• American Jazz Museum: Music lovers can participate in free, virtual jazz storytelling sessions courtesy of the American Jazz Museum, a historic place preserving the legacy of jazz and its many great performers. The storytelling sessions and other online events are a great opportunity to introduce kids and teens alike to the music genre.

Free Wireless Internet Access in Kansas City

• Wifimap.io Free Kansas City Wi-Fi Map
• OpenWifiSpots Kansas City Free Wi-Fi Directory
• Foursquare Best Free Wi-Fi Spots in Kansas City

The Kansas City Public Library offers residents different ways to connect to the internet. For example, you can check out a hotspot for up to two weeks and connect online wherever you want, or you can also enjoy free, high-speed Wi-Fi at any library location. To start using the wireless services, simply connect to the “library” network at a convenient branch near you, including the following:

• Lucile H. Bluford Branch
• Central Library
• North-East Branch
• Plaza Branch
• Southeast Branch

Charities, schools, and public libraries in Kansas City aren’t the only groups helping folks connect to the internet. Many businesses and other location types around the area provide free Wi-Fi. Check out our free Wi-Fi map below to find more of these locations:

Free Wireless Internet Access in Kansas City, MO

11901 Wornall Road

Kansas City, MO 64145

3007 Walker Road, Avondale, Missouri 64117

Avondale, MO 64117

3616 Belleview

Kansas City, MO 64111

4706 North Drury Avenue

Birmingham, MO 64117

3700 Blue Parkway

Kansas City, MO 64130

15800 Calvary Road, Kansas City 64147

Kansas City, MO 64147

1901 Northeast 48th Street

Kansas City, MO 64118

115 Northeast United States Highway 69

Kansas City, MO 64119

11224 Holmes Road

Kansas City, MO 64131

205 Northwest Heady Avenue

Ferrelview, MO 64163