Assistive Technology Resource Center (ATRC)
The CILNCP's Assistive Technology Resource Center (ATRC) is one of 10 ATRC's established in PA to provide assistive technology services. CILNCP's ATRC offers services in the following counties:
- Centre
- Clinton
- Columbia
- Lycoming
- Montour
- Northumberland
- Sullivan
- Tioga
- Union
What does an ATRC provide?
A - Advocacy to help identify and pursue funding sources for assistive technology and to overcome other barriers encountered by people with disabilities.
T - Training and demonstrations of assistive devices. Access to the short-term equipment loan program so you can try a device at home, school or work.
R - Referral and information about assistive technology devices, services and funding.
C - Community awareness activities to help people with disabilities and the public to understand the benefits and potential of assistive technology devices and services.
DEVICE DEMONSTRATIONS
ATRC’s can provide or arrange for “hands-on” opportunities for people with disabilities and family members to explore specific AT devices and improve their knowledge of the kind of AT that may help them. Device demonstrations are available on request, and can be scheduled at a mutually agreed upon time and location.
LENDING LIBRARY
Pennsylvania’s Assistive Technology Lending Library is a free, state-supported program that loans AT devices to Pennsylvania ns of all ages. This program allows you to try a device for a limited time (typically 2-8 weeks) to be sure it meets your needs at home, on the job, at school or in your community – before you buy it. If you find that the device isn't right for you, you can borrow another.
Pennsylvania's Telecommunication Device Distribution Program (TDDP) provides specialized equipment, without charge, to eligible Pennsylvanians with disabilities that impede independent access to telephone services. Created through PA ACT 34-1995, the TDDP is implemented by Pennsylvania's Initiative on Assistive Technology (PIAT), a program of the Institute on Disabilities at Temple University, in conjunction with the PA Office of Vocational Rehabilitation (OVR) and the PA Public Utilities Commission (PUC).
FUNDING RESOURCES
ATRC’s provide funding resources to people with disabilities and their families who are searching for funding for AT devices and services. Your ATRC can provide resource that will help you navigate the maze of health insurances, public programs, and non-governmental funding sources to help you acquire the AT you need. ATRC’s provide support to the Pennsylvania Assistive Technology Foundation (PATF), a statewide program offering low-interest and 0% interest cash loans to people of all ages, income levels and disabilities to purchase AT devices and services. PATF also offers information about other potential funding sources and free consumer credit counseling.
EQUIPMENT RECYCLING/ REUSE
ATRC’s support three programs that may be a source for “previously-owned” devices, usually available at a lower cost than buying new. The Recycled an Exchanged Equipment Partnership (REEP) is a classified listing of used devices to be sold or donated. Into New Hands accepts and refurbishes equipment for refuse. www.ATMATCH.com is an online auction site for the sale of new or used AT devices, and as well as a place to learn about Pennsylvania vendors of new AT.
TRAINING/ TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE
ATRC’s offer training to service providers in order to increase their AT-related knowledge and skills to better support people with disabilities. ATRC’s provide technical assistance to public and private agencies to develop and improve policies related to access to AT devices and services, including AT and transition from school to work or from nursing facilities to community living.
PUBLIC AWARENESS
ATRC’s provide information and referral to help educate consumers about their choices of AT devices and service providers. You can call, write or email your ATRC for AT help. ATRC’s conduct public awareness events to introduce the scope and potential of AT devices and services. Your ATRC can come to your agency or organization, attend your group meeting, or participate in your conference of exhibit hall to provide a program overview of the Commonwealth’s AT Act Program and other resources for AT in Pennsylvania.
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