NDU customers frequently ask us how to find help funding their assistive technology purchase. Well, here is one great option to explore provided by the Association of Blind Citizens (ABC) called the Assistive Technology Fund (ATF). Please note that applications are due Dec 31st and June 30th. Below is information about the application, and further below is more information about ABC. If you, or your organization, have a similar program, let us know!

Assistive Technology Fund

The Association of Blind Citizens operates the Assistive Technology Fund. The Assistive Technology Fund (ATF) will provide funds to cover 50% of the retail price of adaptive devices or software. The ABC board of directors believes that this program will allow blind and visually impaired individuals access to technology products that will have a significant impact on improving employment opportunities, increase the level of independence and enhance their overall quality of life.

The products covered by this program must retail for a minimum of $200 with a maximum retail price of $6,000. Persons eligible to apply for assistance must have a family income of less than $50,000 and cash assets of less than $20,000. Applications will be reviewed by the Assistive Technology Committee (ATC) and recommendations will be submitted for board approval. If applicants are selected to receive a technology grant, applicants will be asked to provide documents such as tax returns, bank statements and any other documents that the ABC board or it’s designee would deem necessary to assess financial need for the grant.

Applicants must be legally blind and a resident of the United States to qualify for this program. Applications must be submitted by June 30th and December 31st for each grant period (two per year). Applicants will be notified if their request for a grant is approved. Applicants may submit one request per calendar year. All applications must be submitted via e-mail. You will be notified by ABC within 45 days after the application deadline. The grantee will have 30 days after notification to purchase the product. If the purchase cannot be made within 30 days ABC reserves the right to withdraw the award and assign it to another applicant. All decisions are final.

You may fill out the request form below by pasting it in to your word processor and emailing it to: atf@blindcitizens.org.

Important: Requests must be received via email only, by June 30th or December 31st. Please do not use attachments when submitting your request.

Association of Blind Citizens Assistive Technology request form
________________________________________________________________________________________

Name:

First Line Of Address:

Second Line Of Address:

City:

State:

Zip:

Telephone Number with area code:

Email address:

Provide a description of 500 or fewer words of the device you wish to purchase and how it will help you achieve employment or increase your independence.
_________________________________________________________________________________________

The mission of the Association of Blind Citizens (ABC) is to advance relevant causes, increase opportunities in education, employment, cultural, recreational and other life activities, as well as enhance the social, political, and economic well-being for all people who are blind or visually impaired.

The ABC supports, argues in favor of, and defends the rights of individuals who are blind or visually impaired. The ABC is a membership organization of blind/visually impaired persons, their friends and families, and other interested individuals who recognize the needs and issues effecting the blind community.

The ABC offers assistance by providing information and referral, advocacy, and other supports to maximize and increase options and opportunities for all blind and visually impaired persons.

The ABC offers seminars to address important issues which have an impact on persons who are blind/visually impaired. Concerns related to civil rights in employment, education, and other matters are addressed by the ABC. The ABC advocates for legislation which effects persons who are blind/visually impaired, as well as assisting its members in getting the most out of agencies and organizations to provide appropriate and meaningful services to individuals in the blind community.

In addition, and in keeping with the blindness culture, the ABC provides social and recreational opportunities by organizing excursions to events which are accessible and meaningful to individuals who are blind or visually impaired. Outings may include audio-described movies/plays, museums, nature hikes, and other activities. Also, the ABC organizes other get-aways to destinations for the fun and relaxation for all to enjoy.

And here is a the link to the ABC!