ALABAMA
The Alabama Telecommunications Access Program (ATAP) provides Loan TTYs and other adaptive equipment to Alabama Residents with disabilities who require special equipment to use the telephone.
ALASKA
TEDP is for people who are deaf, hard of hearing, deaf-blind or speech-impaired or have difficulty communicating on the telephone. The equipment distributed to eligible individuals in Alaska will be Ultratec Miniprint 425 TTY model with direct connect line, turbo code, auto-answer and printer features.
ARIZONA
The State of Arizona loans telecommunications devices at no cost to resident of the State who need assistance communicating on the phone. AzTEDP is the free, state-funded program that loans telecommunications devices to qualified residents with hearing loss who need phone assistance.
FANSTEL established in 1990, was one of the earliest pioneers of the Caller ID industry. Since then, we have grown and diversified, and are now offering not only some of the finest analog business telephones, but also Amplified telephones with innovative and significant features for special needs. Contact Information: Yuan Fan yfan@fanstel.com 7466E. Monte Cristo Ave., Scottsdale, AZ 85260 Voice: 480 9484928, Fax: 480 9485459
Future Call is based in phoenix Arizona and have been in the telecommunication business in the past 20 years. Mr. David Hayward, an Electronic Engineer, has worked in the telecommunication field for the past 25 years. Future Call UK has completed numerous telecommunication projects for companies such as Panasonic, Samsung, BAI (British Airline Industries). During the years Mr. Hayward has become well known throughout the telecommunication industry, being innovative and successful in creating new technology. Future Call maintains a total quality commitment. All our products have a 40db handset amplification , Visual Ringing (Neon / LED) and use flash memory IC. This allows us to back up all memories with out using any external source such as batteries or A/C adaptor. This supports the environment and is essential for this market as ALL memories will NEVER fail in time of emergency. The only model we currently sell using batteries and A/C adaptor is the SOS phone model FC7677. Our goal is to provide the best performing, most reliable, easiest to use products. All of our products come with a 100 percent guarantee of customer satisfaction.
ARKANSAS
The Telecommunications Access Program provides a loan program of telecommunication equipment to eligible individuals. The program serves Arkansans who are deaf, hard of hearing, deafblind speech impaired, with a visual, physical and cognitive disability that impairs their ability to effectively access the telecommunications network.
The California Telephone Access Program (CTAP) distributes telecommunications equipment and services to individuals certified as having difficulty using the telephone. CTAP is a California State mandated program, under governance of the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC). Equipment and some network services are available at no charge to eligible consumers.
CALIFORNIA
CALIFORNIA
Weitbrecht Communications Inc. (WCI) is a woman owned business distributing products for people with various disabilities specializing in hearing loss. We are a "one-stop-shop" for all your assistive technology needs. We are the national distributor of the CapTel, Captioned Telephone. We have been in business and successfully handling many state contracts for over 25 years. WCI has an experiences and award winning customer service team that is not only friendly and willing to go the extra mile for you, they are also highly trained and knowledgeable with electronics and the latest technology.
COLORADO
The Colorado Commission for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (CCDHH) has a mandate from the General Assembly of Colorado to help governmental agencies, private agencies and other entities become more efficient in terms of providing services to deaf and hard of hearing constituents across the Rocky Mountain state.
There are three equipment programs in Connecticut. Basic eligibility for equipment is that an individual must be a Connecticut Resident over the age of eight, a subscriber of Regulated Telephone Service and of a disability which prevents regular telephone use.
FLORIDA
Florida Telecommunications Relay, Inc. (FTRI) is a statewide not for profit organization that provides specialized telephone equipment for citizens of Florida who are Deaf, Hard of Hearing, Deaf/Blind and Speech Disabled. FTRI is also responsible for the education and promotion of the Florida Relay Service. Our funding comes from a small surchage, currently 11 cents, on every telephone bill (landlines only)to ensure individuals with hearing loss and speech disabilities have equal access to the telephone system.
GEORGIA
The Georgia Telecommunications Equipment Distribution Program (GATEDP) provides a variety of specialized telecommunications equipment to qualified applicants who have difficulty using a standard phone.
HAWAII
The United Cerebral Palsy of Idaho provides a library loan for people with disabilities, family members of a person with a disability and any professionals providing services to people with disabilities. The loan is available for 30 days and six items can be checked out at a time by a borrower.
Our purpose is to provide telecommunications access to people who are Deaf, Hard of Hearing, Late Deafened, Speech-Disabled and Deaf-Blind. We accomplish this by providing the Illinois Relay Service and issuing equipment that ranges from amplified telephones to Braille phones.
ClearSounds is a leading manufacturer of cutting-edge assistive communication devices. Our successes can be attributed to the passion we share for helping customers experience a life rich in conversation.
INDIANA
Indiana Telephone Relay Access Corporation is a not-for-profit corporation established in 1991 by a law passed by the Indiana State Legislature. Its purpose is to provide telephone relay service for people who are deaf, hard-of-hearing, or speech imapaired. InTRAC's responsbility is to provide the relay service to all citizens residing in Indianaa. This service is referred to as Relay Indiana.
TAI is a Program created by the Iowa Utilities Board, administered by Deaf Services Unlimited. This voucher program provides a discount of 95% of the average cost for specialized phone equipment.
The Telecommunications Access Program (TAP) of Kentucky is funded by a surcharge on all telecommunication access lines (both wired and wireless) throughout the Commonwealth. Kentucky became the 24th state to implement a specialized equipment distribution program when the Kentucky Commission on the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (KCDHH) started the TAP in July 1995. The TAP provides specialized telecommunications equipment (such as amplified phones, CapTel, TDD, VCO, TeliTalk or wireless) at no charge to deaf, hard of hearing, or speech impaired residents who are at least five years old and have lived in KY for at least one year. The applicant's income is not considered in determination of eligibility and consumers own the equipment once distributed. Each piece of equipment carries a two or four year warranty, depending on the device chosen. The TAP of KY and the Telecommunications Relay Service (TRS) which was enacted by law in 1991, together provide equal access to telecommunication services for all Kentucky citizens.
MAINE
The Maine Center on Deafness (MCD) provides advocacy and support for Maine's D/deaf, Hard of Hearing, and Late-Deafened communities. MCD is a private, non-profit agency that serves the entire state of Maine. MCD administers Maine's Telecommunications Equipment Program (TEP), through which adaptive telecommunications equipment is made available to Maine residents who cannot use a conventional telephone due to a cognitive or physical disability. A simple application process will determine if a client is eligible to participate at 'no cost' (Lending) or 'low cost' (Cost Share). Most of our clients qualify as Lending, and are able to borrow the equipment for as long as they need or want it. If 'Lending' equipment breaks down, MCD will replace it at no charge. In addition to adaptive telecommunications equipment, MCD also distributes Emergency Notification System (ENS) Equipment such as one-way and two-way pagers, and emergency weather radios. The pagers are able to receive email-based emergency alerts from the Maine Emergency Management Agency. The Maine Center on Deafness (MCD) Equipment Program is funded by the Universal Services Fund and the Division of Deafness located within the Department of Labor's Bureau of Rehabilitation Services.
MARYLAND
Maryland Accessible Telecommunications (MAT) provides free assistive telephone equipment to qualifying Maryland residents. Devices are available to customers who are Deaf, hard of hearing, blind, DeafBlind or have a cognitive, mobility, or speech disability. The MAT Program was established in 1996 and provides equipment on a long-term loan basis.
MASSACHUSETTS
MassEDP is a service that provides residents with a permanent disability access to the telephone network in their homes by offering specialized telephones for free or at a reduced cost, depending on income. This program fosters independence, empowerment, and freedom of choice. Funding for MassEDP is provided through a surcharge on all voice and data telephone lines and identified on your bill as "911 and disability services." This surcharge funds Massachusetts enhanced 911 emergency and disability services, such as the Massachusetts Relay Service and the Specialized Telephone Equipment Program. MassEDP is administered by the Massachusetts State 911 Department and was jointly developed by the Massachusetts Commission for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing, Massachusetts Commission for the Blind, Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission, user community representatives, and the Massachusetts Department of Telecommunications and Cable. To obtain an application or learn more about the program call a MassEDP Customer Service Representative on 800-300-5658 Voice/TTY, Monday - Friday, 8:30 am to 5:00 pm. MassEDP.com
MINNESOTA
The Minnesota Telephone Equipment Distribution Program (TED) provides adaptive telephone equipment to individuals who have a hearing loss, physically and speech disability who have difficulty using a standard telephone. The equipment is loaned out at no cost as a long-term loan to qualified Minnesota residence. The TED Program is funded by a telephone surcharge on all provide wire and wireless telephone lines. It is administered through the Department of Commerce- Telecommunication Access Minnesota (DOC-TAM).
MINNESOTA
Harris Communications is a one-stop resource for products for Deaf and Hard of Hearing people.
As part of its mission to increase awareness of and to promote the use of appropriate assistive technology devices and equipment, Project START has in place a short-term loan program. Equipment or devices loaned to consumers or service providers are of a specialized nature and not commonly available in local markets. Because of financial and storage constraints, so called low-tech devices which are readily available from local sources such as drug stores and discount stores will not be included in the project's inventory of loan equipment.
MISSOURI
The Telecommunications Access Program, mandated by S.B. 721, includes the Telecommunications Access Program for Telephone (TAP-T) and Telecommunications Access Program for Internet (TAP-I). The Missouri Assistive Technology Advisory Council administers both programs. While both programs have many similarities in their administration, they are intended to provide different types of equipment.
MISSOURI
Teltex is setting the mark when it comes to providing equipment for the deaf and hard of hearing. Since we specialize in amplified phones, TTY’s, unique notification and Smoke Detection Systems we provide extra support after the purchase answering any questions you may have. Your satisfaction is guaranteed before, during, and after the sale. Teltex, Inc. began as a TTY repair facility in 1997 and quickly became a nationally recognized company for repairing TTY’s, Telephone Equipment and Notification Systems for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing. The company has evolved over the years becoming one of the top distributors of equipment for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing. As a national service center we remain one of the only distributors in the country that services every item we sell.
MONTANA
Montana Telecommunications Access Program was created in the 1989 Montana Legislature. MTAP provides the relay service and an equipment distribution program for Deaf, Hard of Hearing, and Speech and Mobility Disabled Montanans. People who qualify for our program, receive free telephone equipment to assist them in using the phone.
The State of Nebraska is proud to present the Nebraska Specialized Telecommunications Equipment Program (NSTEP). The goal of this program is to provide monetary assistance to persons with disabilities. These persons will then use the financial assistance to aid in the purchasing of specialized telephone equipment such as amplifiers, signaling devices and TTYs.
NEVADA
The Deaf and Hard of Hearing Advocacy Resource Center distributes free Captel phones, amplified phones, TTY's, phone signalers and Q-90s to all qualified applicants with certified hearing/speech loss who are limited in the use of a regular phone. Check out on our website. www.dhharc.org
NEW HAMPSHIRE
NH TEDP assists individuals who experience difficulties using regular phones be able to obtain phones that can accommodate their needs. Effective July 1, 2007, Northeast Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services will be running the Telecommunication Equipment Distribution Program (NH-TEDP) (formally known as the Phone Link Program).
Since 1993, the Division of Deaf and Hard of Hearing (DDHH) has distributed assistive technology to qualified deaf, hard of hearing and deaf-blind New Jersey residents, as well as those with a serious speech impediment.
NEW MEXICO
The State of New Mexico, Commission for Deaf and Hard of Hearing Persons provides effective leadership, education, advocacy and programs to reduce barriers to the social, economic, educational, cultural and intellectual well - being of Deaf and Hard of Hearing New Mexicans and their families, friends and colleagues. The Telecommunications Equipment Distribution Program was established by the New Mexico Legislature in Chapter 54 of the Laws of 1993. The purpose of the program is to distribute free, residential use telecommunications equipment for Deaf, Hard of Hearing, Deaf-Blind and Speech Disabled New Mexicans.
NEW YORK
NEW YORK
DeafBlind Communicator Documentation Spec Sheet (pdf) Technical Facts (pdf) Technical Facts (doc) Opening Doors to the World Effective Collaboration Creates the Right Solution HumanWare, in partnership with the Washington State Office of Deaf and Hard of Hearing (ODHH), has developed a new deafblind communication system. The DeafBlind Communicator (DBC) is the result of collaboration between deafblind individuals and focus groups, professionals from both the deaf and blind communities, and HumanWare’s engineering and marketing teams. The basic DBC provides three types of communication for deafblind users: face-to-face, TTY, and SMS Texting. (Other more powerful features can be activated by the user if desired). TTY Integrated into the DB-BrailleNote The DB-BrailleNote has the land-line connector and special TTY software built right into it making a separate TTY unnecessary. From the chat menu, DBC lets the user enter a telephone number of a TTY or relay service and then either store that number in an address book for future use or make the call and proceed with a TTY conversation. The DBC also has an answering machine built into it. Two Portable Components are Easy to Carry The DBC consists of two separate components that deafblind users can easily carry wherever they go. The main unit is the DB BrailleNote which is a BrailleNote mPower (Perkins and QWERTY models available) with special deafblind software installed in it. The companion unit is the DB-Phone which is a special cell phone with a visual display and a QWERTY keyboard that also has unique deafblind software installed in it. These two components communicate wirelessly with each other using Bluetooth. Face-to-face Communication Wherever You Go DBC users can now communicate with bus drivers, waiters, shop clerks, sighted friends and family, etc. by simply activating a face-to-face chat. By following a simple menu on the DB-BrailleNote, the DB-Phone can be activated and handed to a sighted person. It’s easy to keep track of the DB-Phone as it has a retractable security tether. A message is both spoken and displayed on the DB-Phone stating, “Hi, I’m blind and I can’t hear. To communicate with me, type a message on this keyboard and press (the return arrow).” Whatever the sighted person types on the DB-Phone in text is sent to the DB-BrailleNote user and displayed in Braille. The DBC user can then type a response on the DB-BrailleNote and send it to the DB-Phone and so the conversation continues. Communication with Other BrailleNote and DBC Users Not only can the DBC work in face-to-face situations with sighted people using the DB-Phone, but it can also communicate with other DBC users and even other BrailleNote mPower users. SMS Texting to Other Cell Phone Users Text messaging is fast becoming one of the most frequent forms of communication between cell phone users. A SIM card can be purchased from a wireless provider and installed in the DB-Phone. Following the same basic steps used when activating a TTY call, DBC users can choose to activate the DB-Phone to send text messages. Because of the wireless Bluetooth connection, DBC users never need to access the phone directly. Everything is controlled right from the DB-BrailleNote. Keeping It Simple with KeySoft The DBC is designed to be simple and straight forward with the goal of enabling any Braille user to learn to use it with minimal training. The DBC uses a condensed form of BrailleNote mPower’s notoriously friendly user interface called KeySoft. Easy-to-use menus enable users to quickly find the applications they need and context sensitive “help” is always available in every application to guide and remind the user of options and commands. Activating mPower Applications Those users who are ready for a more sophisticated system can choose to activate the full power of the BrailleNote mPower. Applications like a word processor with spell checker, planner, email, Internet browser, and bookreader are among the applications included once activated. (For more information on the BrailleNote mPower, check out the product section on HumanWare’s website). HumanWare’s new DeafBlind Communicator opens a world of communication possibilities for people who are deaf and blind! var largeImage = 'Site/Files/Shop/092bf14e5ba40b17b948b38ef5c294bf/dbc.jpg'; /*function setMainImage(src,large) { $('mainImage').src = src; largeImage = large; }*/
Independent Living Aids, LLC / SoundBytes is a catalog, web and retail-based company that offers a wide range of hearing assistive devices to benefit anyone with a hearing loss. We carry a comprehensive selection of popular, well-designed items to assist users in conversation, on the telephone, watching television, and other daily activities. As a division of Independent Living Aids, LLC, the United States' oldest privately held mail order company supplying products for blind and visually impaired individuals, Soundbytes has the unique advantage of being able to provide products for multiple disabilities.
NEW YORK
We Try Because You Try™ LS&S specializes in products for the blind, visually impaired, deaf, and hard of hearing. Here you will find a great collection of low vision aids, hearing helpers, daily living aids, and information designed to help you or a loved one regain independence. Adjusting to life-altering changes can be difficult, but in the case of vision or hearing loss LS&S can help you find useful products that will make a difference in your life.
The Telecommunications Equipment Distribution Program (TEDP) provides specialized telephone equipment at no charge to financially qualifying residents of North Carolina who are Deaf, Hard of Hearing, Deaf-Blind, or Speech Impaired.
OKLAHOMA
The Oklahoma Equipment Distribution Program provides special equipment at little or no cost for individuals with hearing or speaking problems that prevent them from using the telephone.
OREGON
Loans specialized telephone equipment at no cost and with no income restrictions to eligible Oregonians who have at least one of the following impairments: hearing (severe or greater), vision, speech, mobility and cognitive.
PENNSYLVANIA
Pennsylvania's Telecommunication Device Distribution Program (TDDP) provides free specialized equipment to eligible Pennsylvanians who have disabilities which prevent them from using regular telephone equipment. Created in 1995 as a result of Act 34, the TDDP is implemented by Pennsylvania's Initiative on Assistive Technology (PIAT), a program of the Institute on Disabilities at Temple University, in conjunction with the PA Office of Vocational Rehabilitation (OVR) and the PA Public Utility Commission (PUC).
As the world's leading provider of augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) products and services, DynaVox Mayer-Johnson offers complete solutions for individuals with speech and learning challenges. Our speech generating devices, often funded by Medicare, Medicaid, insurance and state telephone programs help those with conditions such as autism, ALS, cerebral palsy, stroke, brain injury and others; make meaningful connections with the world around them.
RHODE ISLAND
We provide equipment to qualifed individuals who have hearing and or speech impairements, or who suffer from neuromuscular damage or disease, to enable them to use the telephone.
SOUTH CAROLINA
Our Program SCEDP serves South Carolina residents who have a hearing, speech, or dual-sensory challenge. Qualified applicants can get free enhanced phones and alerting devices. Please contact us for more information about how to apply or visit www.scedp.org. Amplify Life What does it mean? It’s all about making the most of life. Some things just make life better. Like being free to communicate on the phone in your own way. The right phone can mean closer relationships. With the right phone, you can get things done faster and make things happen. Ask us how to get your free phone and start amplifying life today. SCSDB Partnership The SC School for the Deaf and the Blind (SCSDB) partners with the SC Office of Regulatory Staff (ORS) to administer SCEDP. Providing services to people who are deaf or blind, to their families, and to the professionals who serve them, the SCSDB offers: • K-12 education programs at Spartanburg main campus • Statewide K-12 educational programs for public schools • Early intervention programs for infants and toddlers • Summer programs for children who are deaf or blind • Educational assessments • Sign language, braille, and large-print services • Assistive communication device distribution • Professional and family workshops Interpreting services • Accessibility and accommodations services
SOUTH DAKOTA
Telecomunication Equipoment Distribution Program is for people who are deaf, hard of hearing, deaf-blind or speech-impaired or have difficulty communicating on the telephone. Special equipment is available at no cost to enhance telephone communication.
TENNESSEE
The Telecommunications Devices Access Program ("TDAP") is established by Chapter 417 of the Public Acts of 1999 (the "ACT"). In accordance with the Act, the program is designed to distribute appropriate telecommunications devices so that persons who have a disability may effectively use basic telephone service. The Tennessee Regulatory Authority was given the responsibility and authority to implement and manage this program.
TENNESSEE
Over the last four decades, Clarity has become the nation's leading developer of amplified telephones through a steadfast commitment to innovation and uncompromising dedication to the people it serves.
TEXAS
STAP is a voucher program that provides financial assistance for the purchase of specialized assistive equipment or services for individuals whose disability interferes with their ability to access the telephone network.
UTAH
The Equipment Distribution Program is administered by the Utah Public Service Commission. This program provides an equipment loan to low-income people designed to provide assistance to those who absolutely cannot afford equipment on their own.
VERMONT
VERMONT
A program for Vermonters who need adaptive equipment to communicate. We provide free phones, TTYs, and other equipment to qualified individuals.
The Technology Assistance Program (TAP) provides adaptive telecommunication equipment to qualified applicants whose hearing loss or disabilities prevent them from using a standard telephone. Applicants must be deaf, hard of hearing, speech-impaired or deafblind, a resident of Virginia and meet current financial guidelines.
WASHINGTON
The Telecommunication Equipment Distribution (TED) in the Office of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (ODHH), provides telecommunications equipment for Deaf, Hard of Hearing, Deaf-Blind and Speech Impaired residents of Washington state. Equipment provided on a sliding fee scale based on 200% of the Federal Poverty Level.
WEST VIRGINIA
We provide a long term loan of specialized equipment to eligible WV residence.
WISCONSIN
The TEPP is to help people with disabilities buy equipment they need in order to use basic telephone services. The TEPP is paid for by the Wisconsin Universal Service Fund (USF) established by the Public Service Commission. Money collected from Wisconsin telephone service providers goes into the USF.
WYOMING
The State of Wyoming provides equipment at no charge to individuals who are deaf, hard of hearing or speech impaired and who meet the financial qualifications. The Wyoming Relay/Deaf Service Program is offered by the Wyoming Division of Vocational Rehabilitation, an agency of the Wyoming Department of Workforce Services.