BAKERSFIELD, Calif. — Foster youth in California will soon be able to have access to free cell phones and internet, according to state officials.

The California Public Utilities Commission has approved a pilot program which will provide cell phones with an unlimited calling plan and internet access to foster youth between the ages of 13 and 26. The program will reportedly cost $22 million and serve more than 30,000 youth in the foster care system.

The program is intended to help "bridge the digital divide" by providing access to modern day communications and services to low income people, according to state officials.

The program is scheduled to launch in the next eight weeks.