Funding+Resources

﻿﻿Funding Resources

 Funding resources for assistive technology may appear to be hard to find or not within reach because this technology can be quite costly and money does not grow on trees. Applying for assistive technology can ﻿ be an unnerving process because there is a great deal of paperwork, restrictions, and dismissals. Parents and educators should recognize that they are not alone in this difficult task and there are many organizations and programs which provide funding and funding information about assistive technology.

School districts are required to pay for any assistive technology if the child has a disability that requires an aid which will allow him/her to function in a classroom. Parents must be able to show assistive technology devices actually enhance their child’s learning in the LRE (least restrictive environment).

 A student with special needs will have an IEP (individual education plan) that will stipulate what special supports will be needed to reach the child’s goals. Families of children with disabilites may choose to join an assistive technology loan program that would offer different types of loans for assistive technology services, equipment, or training.

The four types of loans include direct loans, guaranteed loans, interest rate buy-down loans, and principal buy-down loans. Medicare, Medicaid, private health insurance, Social Security Disability insurance, and NJDDD may pay for some assistive technology. However, you must be able to show the need for the medical device with proper documentation. The application process is lengthy and has many regulations but for additional guidance please visit: @http://www.abledata.com/abledata_docs/funding.htm

 ﻿ Many state and local agencies offer funding for assistive technology such as those for the individuals who are visually impaired, those who are hard of hearing, and for students with developmental disabilities. For information on agencies in New Jersey that offer funding for assistive technology please visit:  ====**__New Jersey Division of Vocational Rehabilitation Services __**====

Department of Labor & Workforce Development
P.O. Box 398 Trenton, New Jersey 08625-0398 **Telephone:** 866-871-7867 or 609-292-5987. **TT:** 609-292-2919.**Fax:** 609-292-8347. **Email:** dvradmin@aol.nj.us.

There are many programs where students and their families may apply for a number of grants. For more information please visit: @http://www.teachsmart.org/Teacher%20Resources/Grants.aspx

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