TEXAS Technology Access Program

Address: Texas Technology Accesss Program, Texas Center for Disabilitiy Studies, The University of Texas at Austin, The Commons Center Suite 1.154, J.J. Pickle Research Campus, 10100 Burnet Road
Austin, TX 78758-4445 Phone: (512) 232-0740 Fax: (512) 2320761 Email: rogerlevy@mail.utexas.edu Website: http://techaccess.edb.utexas.edu/

The mission of the Texas Technology Access Program is to increase access for people with disabilities to Assistive Technology that provides them more control over their immediate environments and an enhanced ability to function independently.

The Texas Technology Access Program leads the state's efforts to carry out the federal Assistive Technology Act of 2004.

 Assistive Technology is any item, piece of equipment, or product system, whether acquired commercially, modified, or customized, that is used to increase, maintain, or improve the functional capabilities of individuals with disabilities.  Simply stated, Assistive Technology is tools and resources used by individuals with disabilities to help improve their quality of life and increase their independence.

Services Include:

Technology Demonstrations – Demonstrations include an explanation of the function of a device and instruction in its use.  There are opportunities at each demonstration event for participants to use or try a number of devices so that each individual will be better able to determine the most appropriate device to meet his/her specific needs.

Device Loans –  The Texas Technology Access Program is also developing an assistive technology device loan program designed to meet the needs of persons not served by existing agency loan programs.  The program works with agencies that provide assistive technology device loans to develop a system of mutual referral so consumers can find the agency most appropriate to meet their equipment loan needs.
 

Equipment Recycling Program – Project Mend, Inc. is a non-profit medical equipment reutilization program operating in San Antonio, Texas.  Project Mend provides refurbished equipment through long-term loans to many low-income persons with disabilities who can demonstrate financial need.  The loan period is set for a period as long as the individual continues to need the equipment.
 

Loan Program – There are several national assistive technology loan programs available.  Here are some examples:
The Association of Blind Citizens, Assistive Technology Fund; The Bank of America, BOA Access Loans;
The American Association of People with Disabilities (AAPD), DCU Access Loans