Ensuring that low-income individuals with significant hearing and vision loss can stay connected with friends, family, and the world
Communication is essential for staying healthy, holding a job, managing a household and participating in the community.
Modern technology has vastly expanded the way most people communicate through voice, data and video services. But for people who have combined vision and hearing loss, special equipment may be necessary to make a phone call, send an email or access the Internet. This program will ensure that low-income individuals who have combined hearing and vision loss can access telephone, advanced communications and information services. The 21st Century Communications and Video Accessibility Act of 2010 mandated this program and was established by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC).
Qualifications
- Significant Hearing and Vision Loss OR Deaf and Blind
- Annual income 400% above federal poverty level
- Be an Alaskan resident
Assessment
Meet with a representative to determine what equipment will best suit your distance communication needs.
Equipment
This program provides a wide range of hardware, software and applications to suit the varying communications technology needs of people who have hearing and vision loss at no cost to qualified applicants. Examples include products that are available to the general public and may be accessible to people with hearing and vision loss or products that are adaptable through the use of specialized equipment, such as screen enlargement software, screen readers or braille displays.
Training
Meet with a representative for equipment installation, training, and support to help make the most of the technology provided.
Get Connected, Apply Today!
The National Deaf-Blind Equipment Distribution Program for the state of Alaska is administered by ATLA. To learn more about the national program, iCanConnect, visit their website here.