ACL is announcing four new Assistive Technology (AT) Alternative Financing Program (AFP) discretionary grant awards. Nearly $2 million over one year will fund four projects:
- Bridging the Gap: CreditAble
- Grantee: Friends of Disabled Adults and Children, Too! Inc. (Georgia)
- Expanding Assistive Technology Lending in Idaho and Across the Pacific Northwest
- Grantee: Northwest Access Fund
- Expansion of PATF's Lending Programs and Financial Education Program in Pennsylvania and Kentucky
- Grantee: Pennsylvania Assistive Technology Foundation
- WisLoan Program - Down Payment Assistance
- Grantee: Independence First, Inc. (Wisconsin)
Many people with disabilities and older adults do not have the financial resources to purchase AT devices that can help them live, learn, work, and thrive in the community. Major programs such as Medicaid, Medicare, and vocational rehabilitation programs are often unable to meet the growing demand for AT.
The new grants will establish or expand AFPs that provide individuals with additional options to access AT devices through programs such as a low-interest loan fund, an interest buy-down program, a revolving loan fund, a loan guarantee, an insurance program, or others. The AFPs will emphasize consumer choice and control and build programs to provide financing for the full array of AT devices and services to ensure that all people with disabilities — regardless of type of disability or health condition, age, level of income, and residence — have access to the program.
The AT Act program in your state or territory can help you learn more about options and provide assistance to increase your awareness of, and access to, AT devices and services. They also can help you find out about available alternative financing programs, and other state financing options, where you live. You can also reach out to the National Assistive Technology Act Technical Assistance and Training (AT3) Center for more information about AFPs and additional AT financing resources and activities.
Learn more about ACL's Assistive Technology programs.