Technology Resources
Maine Resources
MaineCITE Assistive Technology - The state's federally funded assistive technology initiative. It provides device demonstrations, short-term loans, equipment reuse, training, and information to help individuals of all ages and abilities increase their independence at home, school, and work. Maine CITE partners with organizations like Spurwink ALLTECH and the Office of Aging and Disability Services to expand access to assistive technology across the state.
Maine State Library Outreach Services - Offer programs to support individuals with disabilities and those facing barriers to access. Services include the Books By Mail program, which delivers library materials to homebound individuals, and the Talking Books Program, providing recorded books and special players free to persons who are blind, visually impaired, or physically handicapped.
ALLTech - Maine Educational Center for Assistive Technology & Software - Spurwink ALLTECH is a nonprofit center in Portland that connects individuals to technological solutions to enhance learning and employment opportunities. Services include assistive technology assessments, device loans and demonstrations, and a gently-used medical equipment resale program. ALLTECH collaborates with Maine CITE to provide a free lending library of assistive technology and offers training and consultation to support individuals with disabilities.
Maine Government Policies for Accessibility of Information Technology - The State of Maine has implemented policies to ensure digital accessibility for individuals with disabilities. The Digital Accessibility and Usability Policy mandates that all state agencies evaluate digital information and services for accessibility compliance, provide guidance and training to personnel, and adhere to established testing guidelines and standards. These efforts align with federal regulations, including Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act, to promote inclusive access to information technology.
Regional Resources
Easterseals Massachusetts - Assistive Technology Regional Centers (ATRC) - Located in Worcester and Boston, these centers offer free device demonstrations and a lending library of thousands of AT devices, ranging from communication tools to daily living aids. Residents can borrow equipment for up to 30 days to assess suitability before making long-term decisions.
Northeast Arc - Assistive Technology Lending Library - Based in Danvers, this library allows individuals to test and borrow various smart home devices, communication aids, and other AT tools. The goal is to enable users to experience technology firsthand, promoting independence in daily activities.
Massachusetts Association for the Blind and Visually Impaired (MABVI) - Access Tech - MABVI provides training for individuals who are blind or visually impaired to effectively use technology such as screen readers, navigation apps, and communication tools. Services are available at multiple locations, including Boston, Worcester, and Springfield, as well as through virtual sessions.
University of Massachusetts Amherst – Assistive Technology Center (ATC) - Situated within the W.E.B. Du Bois Library, the ATC offers access to specialized software and equipment, including screen readers and speech-to-text tools. The center provides training and support to students, faculty, and staff to enhance digital accessibility on campus.
Assistive Technology in New Hampshire (ATinNH) - Managed by the University of New Hampshire’s Institute on Disability, ATinNH offers equipment demonstrations, short-term loans, and device reuse programs. They also conduct training and outreach to educate the community about assistive technology options.
National Resources
Federal Programs and National Networks
Assistive Technology Act Programs (ATAP) - A national, member-based nonprofit organization established in 1997 to support and coordinate state and territory Assistive Technology (AT) Act Programs across the United States. Funded under the federal Assistive Technology Act, ATAP's mission is to enhance the effectiveness of these programs by providing technical assistance, fostering collaboration, and advocating for policies that improve access to assistive technology. Through partnerships with entities like the AT3 Center and the Center for Assistive Technology Act Data Assistance (CATADA), ATAP ensures that individuals with disabilities can access the tools and services they need for education, employment, and community living.
AT3 Center - A national hub dedicated to supporting state and territory Assistive Technology (AT) programs across the United States. Funded by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services' Administration for Community Living (ACL), the AT3 Center provides comprehensive training, technical assistance, and resources to enhance the implementation of AT services. Its mission encompasses facilitating device demonstrations, short-term loans, equipment reuse, and financial assistance initiatives, thereby promoting independence and accessibility for individuals with disabilities. Additionally, the AT3 Center maintains a site offering general AT information to the public.
Funding and Financial Assistance
ATIA Funding Resources Guide - Designed to help individuals, families, and professionals explore potential funding options for acquiring assistive technology (AT). This guide outlines various sources, including government programs, private foundations, and community organizations, that may provide financial assistance for AT devices and services. While not exhaustive, the guide serves as a valuable starting point for those seeking to identify and investigate funding opportunities to support the acquisition of assistive technology.
UCP Elsie S. Bellows Fund - Provides grants to individuals with disabilities for the purchase of assistive technology (AT) equipment. The fund aims to enhance independence and quality of life by covering a wide range of AT devices, including manual and electric wheelchairs, augmentative communication devices, environmental controls, computer equipment, lifts for vehicles or homes, and hearing aids. Applications for funding are submitted through local UCP affiliates on behalf of individuals, and the Bellows Committee reviews these applications for approval. While the fund supports various AT equipment, it does not cover items such as automobiles, non-adapted furniture or appliances, or evaluations and other AT services. In 2023, the fund received 526 applications and distributed over $413,000 in grants, demonstrating its significant impact on the disability community.
National Disability Institute - Assistive Technology Loan Program - Provides affordable financing options for individuals with disabilities, seniors, and veterans. This program facilitates loans ranging from $500 to $45,000, which can be used for purchasing or refinancing various assistive technologies, including hearing and vision aids, communication devices, mobility equipment, home and vehicle modifications, and smart home technologies. Notably, the program features competitive interest rates and does not require a credit score for eligibility, making it accessible to a broader range of applicants. Additionally, timely loan repayments are reported to credit bureaus, offering borrowers an opportunity to build or improve their credit history. NDI collaborates with financial institutions like Spring Bank to administer these loans and also provides referrals to grants and other funding sources to help reduce the overall cost of assistive technology for applicants.
Additional Resources
Center for Assistive Technology Act Data Assistance (CATADA) - Dedicated to supporting state and territory Assistive Technology (AT) programs funded under Section 4 of the Assistive Technology Act of 1998. Its primary mission is to provide technical assistance for the collection, reporting, analysis, and utilization of data related to AT services. By enhancing data quality and consistency, CATADA aids in improving the delivery of AT services across the United States. One of CATADA's key tools is the National Assistive Technology Act Data System (NATADS), a web-based platform used by state AT programs to submit required data elements for the Annual Progress Report (APR). This system ensures standardized data collection and facilitates the analysis of program outcomes .
ECTA Center – Funding Sources for Assistive Technology - Provides guidance on how families and professionals can access financial support for assistive technology (AT) for young children with disabilities. It highlights a range of funding options, including community organizations like Lions Clubs, Kiwanis, and United Way, as well as AT reuse programs that offer refurbished equipment at reduced or no cost. The center also explains how federal and state programs can cover the cost of AT when it is necessary for a child's education or early intervention services. This resource is a practical tool for navigating available supports to ensure children have the tools they need for development and learning.