ACL announces three new Assistive Technology Alternative Financing Program discretionary grant awards. The Alternative Financing Program (AFP) grant awards establish or expand AFPs that provide individuals with additional options to access and acquire assistive technology (AT) devices through a low-interest loan fund, an interest buy-down program, a revolving loan fund, a loan guarantee, an insurance program, or others. AFPs emphasize consumer choice and control to build programs that provide financing for the full array of AT devices and services to ensure all people with disabilities — regardless of type of disability or health condition, age, level of income, and residence — have access to the program.
Nearly $2 million over one year will fund three projects.
AT Ownership through Leasing (AOL)
Grantee: Louisiana Assistive Technology Access Network (LATAN)
LATAN’s AOL program will provide individuals with disabilities, older adults, and others with functional limitations the opportunity to permanently own their AT through a lease-to-own option. The project updates and expands its current lease program, which was originally created to meet the needs of individuals with serious medical conditions or access to AT on a temporary basis, such as for travel.
Michigan Assistive Technology Loan Fund (MATLF)
Grantee: United Cerebral Palsy Association of Michigan, Inc.
MATLF assists residents in Michigan with disabilities, older adults, and their families to secure technology needed to become more independent and productive members of the community through partnerships with various organizations to offer low-interest loans, loan guarantees, interest rate subsidies, and financial education to facilitate the purchase of AT and support financial health and well-being.
AFP Expansion to Reduce Barriers at Home and in the Community
Grantee: Florida Alliance for Assistive Services and Technology, Inc. (FAAST)
FAAST’s AFP expansion will focus on a home-to-community-centered approach to promote better health, quality of life, and independence of individuals with disabilities and older adults by breaking down barriers and gaining access to home accessibility modifications and modified vehicles through direct lending and guaranteed loans.
The AT Act program in your state or territorycan help you learn more about options and provide assistance to increase your awareness of, and access to, AT devices and services. They can also help you find out about available alternative financing programs and other state financing options where you live. You can reach out to the National Assistive Technology Act Technical Assistance and Training (AT3) Centerfor more information about AFPs and additional AT financing resources and activities. Learn more about ACL's Assistive Technology programs.
See Notice of Funding Opportunity: HHS-2024-ACL-CIP-ATTF-0088,"Assistive Technology Alternative Financing Program," posted June 13, 2024.