Nearly half a million low-income Alabama residents could gain access to free cellular service through a new program launched by T-Wire. T-Wire is offering free phones and service through the federal Lifeline program to Alabama residents who meet income thresholds or are enrolled in programs like SNAP, Medicaid or Section 8 housing. While over 680,000 Alabama residents are eligible for Lifeline assistance, less than a third participate. T-Wire aims to increase participation by raising awareness of the program, which provides important connectivity for employment, medical care, family and emergency services.