Connecting Families Initiative
CFI
The Connecting Families Initiative is a Government of Canada program, administered by Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada, in which internet service providers voluntarily offer discounted home internet to eligible Canadians. Phase one, launched in November 2018, offered $10 a month packages with at least 10 Mbps download and 100 GB of data; phase two, launched 1 April 2022, broadened eligibility to low-income seniors and offers 50 Mbps download and 10 Mbps upload with at least 200 GB of data for $20 a month. Eligible households can also request a low-cost digital device while supplies last.
Useful Tips for Applying
Register only through the Connecting Families registration portal, using the activation code, your full name and the address printed on your letter. Nineteen providers participate voluntarily and together serve nearly 85% of the internet market, but service is not available everywhere and some areas have no participating provider. Keep your letter and code safe — they cannot be reissued — and photograph them if you can. Providers cover the cost of the discounted plans; ISED does not see your tax information. If you have no home internet, a library or community centre can help you register, and the Connecting Families call centre (through the YWCA Vancouver) is at 1-833-206-0599.
Who May Qualify
Households must receive an invitation letter from the Government of Canada with an access code to take part — eligibility is assessed annually from household income and the Canada Child Benefit or Guaranteed Income Supplement. There is no way to enrol without a letter.
Required Documents
• Government-issued invitation letter containing your unique activation code • Government-issued ID matching the name on the letter
How to Apply
1. Receive an official invitation letter from the Government of Canada. 2. Visit the Connecting Families registration portal. 3. Enter your activation code, full name, and address. 4. Select a participating ISP from the list provided. 5. Contact the chosen ISP to finalize the sign-up.
Preparing an application?
The Application Helper walks you through each question on this benefit's form in plain language.
You may also be eligible for…
Rogers Connected for Success
Rogers Connected for Success offers low-cost home internet, TV bundles and mobile plans to people receiving social assistance in the provinces where it operates. Verified plan prices are $10 a month for internet 25 (up to 25 Mbps download, 5 Mbps upload, unlimited usage, WiFi modem included), $20 for internet 50 and $35 for internet 150, all with no activation or installation fees; there are also TV bundles from $40 and a $25 5G mobile plan with 10 GB. It is a carrier-run complement to the federal Connecting Families Initiative.
View detailsCPP Children's Benefit
A monthly payment to the dependent children of someone receiving the Canada Pension Plan (CPP) disability benefit, or of a deceased CPP contributor.
View detailsRegistered Disability Savings Plan
A long-term, tax-deferred savings plan designed to help Canadians with disabilities and their families save for the future. The Government of Canada provides matching grants and bonds to eligible beneficiaries to help grow their savings.
View detailsApplication denied?
If your application is turned down, the Appeals Guide explains filing deadlines, escalation levels, and where to find free legal and advocate help.
National resources
HealStroke: Stroke Recovery — Stroke Technology, Inc.
HealStroke is a mobile app for adults after stroke and adult caregivers. Publisher-described features include daily recovery organization, reminders, guided practice and progress records. Free download with in-app purchases. It supports education and self-management alongside professional care; no independent clinical-effectiveness or accessibility certification is claimed.
View detailsStepSafe Technologies Inc.
StepSafe makes a matchbox-sized cellular GPS tracker for children with autism, ADHD or Down syndrome who are prone to wandering (elopement). Parents see live location in an app, get alerts when a child leaves a safe zone, and the microphone is permanently disabled for privacy. Locking wristband and waistband wearables are in development. Devices ship to families in Canada and the US starting February 2027. We also offer a free wandering Safety Kit for parents (printable ID card, safety plan and checklists) at stepsafetech.com/resources.
View detailsFind A Doctor Canada
Find A Doctor Canada is a free, independent online search tool for exploring family-doctor, walk-in clinic and other primary-care options across Canada. Searching for a family doctor can add another burden for people already managing a disability or supporting a loved one — this tool lets users search by location and care type, review reported availability and source notes, and contact clinics directly. It is a navigation tool, not a clinic or medical service; current intake, eligibility and accessibility arrangements must be confirmed with each provider, and acceptance is not guaranteed.
View detailsAccessible Compass is an independent guide — we are not a government agency and do not process applications or approve benefits. We provide general information only, not legal, medical, or financial advice. Program rules may change. Always confirm with official government sources.
