The Technology Related Assistance for Individuals with Disabilities (TRAID) Program has recently renewed its five-year grant with ADAPT’s TechWorks program. This grant will help ensure ADAPT can continue to provide free access to assistive technology for individuals throughout New York City.
ADAPT’s TechWorks program is a free public resource. The program provides individual evaluations with families and community members to determine which products and resources would be best suited to their needs. Individuals do not need to be a part of ADAPT’s network to receive services. There are no barriers to access, and no insurance is required.
The program offers a wide variety of tools, software, and equipment designed to support computer access, speech, daily living, mobility, positioning, and more. These resources help people with disabilities navigate everyday activities more independently and with more ease, expanding access to education, employment, and community life.
Over the next five years, ADAPT plans to further develop its 3D printing program. Through partnerships with local makerspace organizations, ADAPT can explore how assistive devices can be customized, created at a faster speed, and made more affordable.
The grant will also enable ADAPT to expand its assistive technology library, providing more resources for those who need it the most. In addition, funding will be attributed to the research and development of adaptive equipment, as well as training opportunities for educators.
“We are often among the first to provide Early Intervention assistance to families as they navigate the process of acquiring equipment. For example, we often provide families with loaner strollers equipped with the appropriate support, allowing children to attend school while their families wait for their own equipment to arrive through the often-lengthy ordering and fulfillment process with insurance or other funding sources. We have also provided seniors with various types of durable medical equipment, enabling them to leave their homes and participate in their communities. Our services focus on reducing barriers and promoting equal access, participation, and independence for individuals throughout NYC” shares Peter Pitarresi, Director of TRIAD and TechWorks at ADAPT Community Network.
To learn more about ADAPT’s Techwork’s Program, visit https://adaptcommunitynetwork.org/service-options/technology/