Record rainfall, extensive flooding and an alarming number of tornadoes have already guaranteed 2020 a place in the history books.

Tropical Storm Cristobal—which formed on June 1, the first day of hurricane season—has already brought heavy rain, storm surge and winds to Mississippi and the northern Gulf Coast. Now with hurricane season in full swing, it’s time to make sure you’re prepared to handle a potential disaster. We sure are.

The COVID-19 pandemic upended studies for millions of students in the U.S. this spring, sending them home to continue their education through distance learning.

But in Mississippi, which trails the nation in broadband internet access, 30 percent of households lack the broadband internet needed to download or stream educational videos, participate in video calls with teachers or upload assignments.

Staying safely connected is more important than ever during this period of social distancing due to COVID-19, and C Spire is taking extra precautions to ensure the health and safety of our customers and team members.

We know how critical it is for you to have a fast, reliable internet connection at home. That’s why we are implementing new customer contact guidelines to deliver our Gigabit fiber internet service while also following best practices for limiting exposure to germs.

More relief for small businesses from COVID-19 related economic disruption is on the way, and your business may qualify.

The Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act passed Congress in March 2020, allocating billions in funds for business owners to help keep Americans employed during the pandemic and economic recovery. A second round of funding will make another $250 billion available for banks to lend.

C Spire’s efforts to increase broadband coverage across Mississippi haven’t taken a backseat to COVID-19. In fact, our network team has stepped up to provide internet access in more places than ever so Mississippians can stay connected to school, work, friends and family.

The C Spire network team drives the core of what our customers rely on—the ability to communicate with friends and family, connect with work colleagues and unwind with their favorite movies, TV shows and music.