Assistive Technology Programs Have Been Cut!!!
Cut $115,000 - MassAbility AT Independent Living Program, which provides free assistive technology equipment and training for individuals with severe disabilities. This program offers assistive technology services that will enable individuals to live more independently and safely in their homes.
- Computer technology
- Voice output communication aids
- Electronic aids for daily living
Easterseals Massachusetts served 1,260 people in the program last year. Unfortunately, this year the overall contract total was reduced by $115,000, which resulted in 230 people not getting the equipment and services they needed to stay independent in the community.
Cut $270,000 - The Massachusetts Alternative Finance Program, which improves the independence and quality of life of residents with disabilities through loan opportunities for acquiring assistive technology devices and services. The goal of the program is to provide equal opportunities for people with disabilities to live more independently. Many different items are considered assistive technology.
- Hearing aids
- Computers
- Flashing doorbells
- Electric wheelchairs or scooters
- Adapted vehicles
- Home modifications such as portable ramps or stair lifts
Easterseals Massachusetts has loaned over $19 million and provided 950 traditional loans since its inception, helping over 640 people with disabilities purchase a vehicle to access the community. We have also loaned over 100 mini-loans totaling $187,000 to purchase assistive technology.
Please support funding for Assistive Technology Programs. Please add $385,000 to line item 4120-4000 MassAbility in the Governor’s FY26 Budget and earmark language: provided that not less than $2,305,000 shall be expended for assistive technology services.
Please take action by writing to your legislators: https://www.congressweb.com/eastersealsma/2/
