Free Cellphone!!!!!

If you qualify. https://www.safelinkwireless.com

I saw this add on the TV last night. What are your thoughts about giving away a free cellphone to eligible persons for “emergency” use. In Massachusetts you get 80 minutes a month. It looks like you can go buy Tracphone minute cards and add them to the phone as well.

I am kind of on the fence about this. Wouldn’t it be best to charge them a nominal fee say $5 bucks a month, that way tax payers don’t have to front the entire cost?

I’m all for providing necessary services, but cellphones are still a convenience. Or am I wrong?