Staying connected to family, friends, and the world is essential for staying healthy and participating in the community. Technology has expanded the way most people communicate through voice, data, and video services. Individuals with combined vision and hearing loss often need special equipment to make a phone call, send an email, or access the Internet.

Idaho’s National Deaf-Blind Equipment Distribution Program, through the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), will ensure that income qualifying individuals who have combined hearing and vision loss can access their world.

Young girl getting computer assistance from teacher.

Partners

  • Idaho Assistive Technology Project
  • Idaho Commission for the Blind and Visually Impaired
  • Idaho Commission on Aging
  • Idaho Council for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing
  • Idaho Education Services for the Deaf and the Blind
  • Idaho Project for Children and Youth with Deaf-Blindness
  • National Helen Keller Center
  • University of Idaho Center for Disabilities and Human Development
Young boy smiling at iPad.
Braille reader.

What kind of equipment will be distributed?
This program provides a wide range of hardware, software, and applications to suit the varying communications technology needs of people who have hearing and vision loss.

Is this program for me?
If you are a person who has combined vision and hearing loss, and you cannot afford communications technology that enable you to use a telephone, send an email, access the Internet, or use other communications technology, you may be eligible for this program.

Young girl with touchpad.

iPad and iPad with specialized case for easy holding.

How do I choose the best equipment to suit my needs?
A qualified program specialist can help you identify equipment that will meet your needs.

How do I learn how to use the equipment?
Program specialists are also available to train you to use the equipment.

Important to Note!

  • The individual/family must have internet access.
  • The equipment is for distance communication, such as social media, FaceTime, email, Internet access, etc.

Begin the Application Process