AT Funding Challenges/Aids

by Jeni Mundl

Forethought and planning are the keys to the successful funding of assistive technology. Because the process to secure appropriate funding can often be long, it's important to start out on the right foot with motivation and dedication. Don't give up with your first rejection; appeal is often an option.

Ten years ago, voice recognition equipment averaged $10,000. Today, a good voice recognition product may only cost $169. Although the price has come down significantly, some people with disabilities still find the costs for AT unaffordable.

One valuable resource to help you in your funding journey is a free funding directory offered by the STAR (System of Technology to Achieve Results) Program. Newly updated, this free directory is part of the national programs for AT under the Technology Act of 1998.

The directory is divided into two sections: one for governmental and another for nongovernmental resources. Each listing includes contact information, ages served, disability types eligible, locations served, criteria for funding and amount funded. In addition, it categorizes the resource by funding assistance, and the services and types of equipment funded. There's also an Index of Assistive Technology Funders to help locate all possibilities for a specific service or equipment.

The directory also provides helpful info on topics such as types of funding, the funding search, developing a funding strategy, a funding checklist and a definition of AT.

Under additional resources, the Minnesota Disability Law Center is listed as a contact when you feel a funding denial is inappropriate. The Center provides free legal services to protect the rights of people with disabilities.

The Internet also provides a wide range of funding information. The directory lists a variety of AT and disability Web sites. The STAR Program is in the process of updating their on-line version of the funding directory. The listing is a sampling of available programs compiled from organizations that responded to a survey. After using the STAR Funding Directory, continue your search through library resources, books and the Internet.

Just remember: Whether you are looking for home modifications or van adaptations, the funding search will take time and dedication.

To obtain a copy of the funding directory, contact STAR at 651-296-2771, toll free 1-800-657-3862 or at star.program@state.mn.us.

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Last updated on May 10, 2003
Created and maintained by Jehad Adwan, adwan001@netscape.net.