For people who are legally blind
Massachusetts Commission for the Blind: Vocational Rehabilitation
State vocational rehabilitation (VR) agencies are a major funding source for assistive technology (AT) for working-age individuals with disabilities. Read more.
State vocational rehabilitation (VR) agencies are a major source of funding for assistive technology (AT) for working-age people with disabilities. In Massachusetts, VR services are provided through the Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission (which serves individuals with most physical and mental disabilities) and the Massachusetts Commission for the Blind (which serves individuals who are legally blind).
Who is Eligible?
To be eligible for VR services through the Massachusetts Commission for the Blind (MCB):
- the individual must be legally blind, and the blindness must create a significant barrier to employment;
- the individual must need vocational rehabilitation services to prepare for, secure, retain, or regain employment;
- there must be a determination that vocational rehabilitation services will result in a positive employment outcome for the individual.
Federal law requires state VR agencies to presume that a person with a disability is capable of employment, regardless of their disability. Additionally, individuals receiving VR services are not required to wait for their AT devices while counselors explore other funding sources.
How are Services Provided?
When someone applies to MCB’s vocational rehabilitation program, they work with a counselor to identify services needed. After evaluating the client’s needs, an Individual Plan of Employment (IPE, formerly known as an Individualized Plan of Employment) is developed. The IPE should outline the services and AT devices necessary for employment goals. MCB counselors sometimes combine funding from other public or private agencies (particularly employers) to maximize the ability to obtain AT for clients.
What AT Services are Provided?
At the Massachusetts Commission for the Blind (MCB), the Technology for the Blind Program may, based on an individual’s needs assessment, provide closed circuit television systems, adaptive computer equipment, and software. Additionally, MCB can provide various adaptive equipment such as talking devices and other specialized AT devices. The program also offers training on adaptive equipment and software, as well as technical assistance and instruction to consumers in how to use these devices.
Contact
Boston MCB Office
600 Washington Street
Boston, MA 02111
Telephone: (617) 727-5550
VOICE (800) 392-6450 (MASS. ONLY)
VOICE (800) 392-6556 (MASS. ONLY)
TDD Fax: (617) 626-7685
Worcester MCB Office
390 Main Street Suite 620
Worcester, Ma 01608-2111
(508) 754-1148 VOICE
(800) 263-6944 (MASS ONLY) VOICE
Fax: (508) 752-7832
Springfield MCB Office
436 Dwight Street Room
109 Springfield, Ma 01103
(413) 781-1290 VOICE
(800) 332-2772 (MASS. ONLY) VOICE
Fax: (413) 746-8570
New Bedford MCB Office
800 Purchase Street Suite 290
New Bedford, Ma. 02740-6344
(508) 993-6140 VOICE
(800) 989-4411 (MASS. ONLY) VOICE
Fax: (508) 992-4147