iCanConnect/NJ to Provide Communications Technology to People with Combined Vision and Hearing Loss
iCanConnect/NJ is a new federally funded program that will distribute a wide array of assistive technology equipment to New Jersey residents who have a combined loss of vision and hearing. The program, which is the result of the 21st Century Communications and Video Accessibility Act of 2010, is being managed by the Commission for the Blind and Visually Impaired, in partnership with the Division of the Deaf and Hard or Hearing and The College of New Jersey.
A person who is considered deaf-blind according to the Helen Keller National Center Act and whose household income does not exceed 400% of the Federal Poverty Level may be eligible for the program. Current income limit guidelines are as follows:
| # of People in Family/Household |
Annual Income May Not Exceed
|
| 1 |
$44,680 |
| 2 |
$60,520 |
| 3 |
$73,360 |
| 4 |
$92,200 |
| 5 |
$108,400 |
| 6 |
$123,880 |
| 7 |
$139,720 |
| 8 |
$155,560 |
The goal of this program is to enhance the quality of life for individuals who are Deaf-Blind by helping them manage their day-to-day life affairs, reduce barriers to employment, access community resources and services, and participate in social and civic activities.
iCanConnect/NJ will provide a wide range of specialized and “off-the-shelf” devices as well as software applications. Products may include braille displays, computer screen readers, and even iPhones and iPads with built-in accessibility features.
Individuals who meet the eligibility requirements will meet with a technology specialist who will conduct an assessment of the person’s needs and technology skills. A recommendation on the appropriate equipment for purchase will be developed. Once the equipment is received and installed, the recipient will be provided one-on-one training to enable optimum usage.
For further information about how to apply for the iCanConnect/NJ Program, contact Allen Reposh at (609)771-2575 / e-mail: reposha@tcnj.edu or visit: www.icanconnect.org.
