Group Holds Free Phone Fair Event for Christmas for Low-Income Residents

PORTLAND, OR - On Thursday, December 23 from 3:30 - 8 p.m. a group of Portland-area residents will be holding a free phone fair at the Wayfinding Academy in St. John’s. The intent is to get as many Portlanders connected before the Christmas holiday. Anyone who qualifies can come to sign up for a free smartphone and unlimited data. The first 200 people to arrive will walk away with phones. If there are additional requests, the phones will be shipped directly to the recipient. One does not need to be a Portland or Oregon resident to attend. 

“In 2021, having a smartphone is critical for access to transportation, community, and even healthcare.

"But the cost of adequate plans and phones are burdensome for so many in our community. That’s why we’re collaborating with community organizations across the Portland Metro area for a Free Phones for Christmas phone fair” Said Gregory McKelvey, one of the organizers. “This is an amazing opportunity for those who can not afford a phone, the houseless population, and many more.”

Under the federal government’s Emergency Broadband Benefit, those who qualify will receive a free smartphone, along with a free phone plan, including unlimited data, voice, and text. It is easy to qualify: anyone who receives SNAP benefits or is covered by the Oregon Health Plan/Medicaid (not Medicare).  The group expects that the free monthly service will continue to be a long-term federal benefit.

The EBB partner’s offer is only available now.  Due to changes to the federal funding of this benefit as of 1/1/22, this free phone program will not be open for new enrollment in the new year.