Massachusetts Equipment Distribution Program (MassEDP)

The Massachusetts Equipment Distribution Program (MassEDP) is a program of the Massachusetts State 911 Department, an agency within the Massachusetts Office of Public Safety and Security. The program is no longer run by Verizon and equipment is now provided directly by MassEDP. Anyone with a verifiable disability can access specialized equipment free of charge or at reduced cost depending on the applicant’s household income. To apply you need a standard land-line phone service provider (Vonage customers are not eligible because they do not pay into the Interstate Telecommunications Fund which funds the program). Once in the program, your equipment is maintained, repaired or replaced at no cost for life, so long as you do not dispose of the original equipment. If broken equipment is thrown away, you will have to reapply to the program and possibly pay another co-pay to replace the device. Read more.

Who is Eligible:

To be eligible for free or reduced-cost equipment you must:

• be a resident of Massachusetts;
• have access to residential telephone service (land line);
• have your disability verified by a MA licensed physician or audiologist;
• complete an application (at this Dept of Public Safety EDP web page) and submit it for certification to the appropriate state disabilities agency (the Massachusetts Commission for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing or the Massachusetts Commission for the Blind).

How Are Services Provided?

Once a state disability services agency approves your application, MassEDP will attempt to contact you by phone. If they are unable to reach you, they will send an acceptance letter by mail. You will then be referred to the nearest MassEDP office to receive the appropriate equipment.

For individuals with mobility impairments, cognitive disabilities, or legal blindness, MassEDP provides in-home visits for demonstration and installation of the equipment. If you have low vision, are deaf or hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, you will need to visit your nearest MassEDP office to test and select the equipment that best suits your needs.

What AT Services Are Provided?

MassEDP offers specialized telephone and TTY equipment designed for use with standard landline phone service. Applicants with a household income below $50,000 per year (adjusted based on the number of dependents) receive equipment at no cost. For households exceeding this income threshold, devices valued under $100 are provided for free, while more expensive equipment requires a co-pay of one-third of the total cost.

Equipment demonstrations and technical support are available at local MassEDP offices or through in-home visits, depending on the applicant’s disability. Maintenance, repair, and replacement services are offered at no charge, provided the original equipment remains in possession. Membership in the program is lifelong.

Contact:

Grant Harrison, EDP manager
Massachusetts Equipment Distribution Program
800-300-5658 Voice/TTY
Mon – Fri 8:30am to 5:00pm
MassEDP web page
grant.harrison@state.ma.us

Safelink Wireless

Safelink Wireless is a government program that provides a free cell phone and air-time each month for income-eligible customers.

Who is Eligible?

You are eligible for Safelink if you :

• Have a household income of 135% or less of the federal poverty level. You automatically qualify if you are a current recipient of one of the following programs:
  • Emergency Aid to the Elderly, Disabled and Children
  • Social Security Income
  • Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program
  • Food Stamps
  • MassHealth
  • Transitional Aid To Families with Dependent Children
  • Fuel Assistance
• Have a valid US Postal address. PO Boxes are not acceptable for shipping.
• Are not already receiving Lifeline Assistance through another phone carrier and no one in your household is receiving this assistance (you must first cancel Lifeline to receive Safelink).

What AT is Provided?

In Massachusetts the program provides a free cell phone and 80 minutes of airtime each month. You also have the option to purchase additional airtime.

Contact:

To learn more or apply visit: www.safelink.com
Call 1-800-977-3768 to check your enrollment status.

Project Independence: 9-1-1 for Everyone

This privately-funded program is providing low-income people with disabilities who are residents of Boston, Brookline, and Newton (and surrounding areas) with free emergency-only cell phones. The phones will connect with 911 emergency services only. Read more.

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Free videophones and Web cams

Sorenson Communications: VP-100 or VP-200 videophone

Sorenson Communications (based in Salt Lake City, Utah) distributes its videophones nationwide and free of charge to people who are deaf or hard of hearing and primarily use sign language to communicate. Videophones are used with a television and broad band internet connection (minimum of 256K connection) to link people with disabilities to each other and through a video relay service (VRS)�to standard phone users. Read more.

Who is Eligible?

Deaf or hard of hearing people who primarily use sign language to communicate can apply for a free videophone if they have a high speed internet connection. Hearing people who use sign language to communicate with the deaf community are not eligible for Sorenson videophones and the products are not available for purchase. Hearing consumers can purchase a Web cam (for use with a PC) in order to communicate with Sorenson users.

How are AT Services Provided?

Sorenson processes applications (completed at their website: www.sorenson.com) and connects applicants to a local installer. Due to the high demand for the free Sorenson VRS equipment/videophone, it can sometimes take several weeks for the videophone to be installed.

What AT is Provided?

Applicants may receive a VP-200 (learn about them at www.sorenson.com), plus training and installation. The VP-200 incorporates a visual caller ID feature (VP-200 users can assign a unique light signaling pattern for incoming calls), a call waiting and hold feature, and a pan/tilt/zoom feature that allows users to remain seated while adjusting the camera lens. This last feature is especially useful for people with mobility challenges.

Contact:

www.sorenson.com/support
email: support@sorenson.com
(866) 877-9826 TTY
(866) 496-6111
(801) 287-9495 FAX (ATTN: Tech Support)

Videophone: (801) 287-9403
Please hold until a technician answers.
If you hang up, you will be disconnected.

Sorenson Technical Support Department
4393 South Riverboat Road Suite 300
Salt Lake City, UT 84123

ZVRS: Z-150, Z-340, Z-OJO

ZVRS offers three videophone products to access VRS. Each has a built-in screen but they vary with regards to portability and features. The company sells them at a subsidized rate to people who are deaf or hard of hearing. Hearing individuals may also purchase ($250 and up).

Who is Eligible?

To be eligible for a subsidized videophone you must:

• be deaf or hard of hearing
• have a high speed internet connection

Contact:

www.zvrs.com
email: help@zvrs.com
Videophone: help.zvrs.tv or (866) 932-7891
Fax (727) 214-0367
Voice (800) 296-3808

Snap!VRS: the Ojo videophone

Snap!VRS is distributing free Ojo PVP 900 videophones (and routers) to US residents who are deaf, hard of hearing, or who have a speech disability. Read more.

Who Is Eligible?

To qualify for a free Ojo PVP 900 and a router, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Be a new Snap!VRS customer
• Be a U.S. citizen
• Be deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability
• Use sign language as a primary means of communication
• Have a valid telephone number (or obtain one through Snap!VRS)
• Have access to broadband internet with a minimum connection speed of 256 Kbps
• Provide a valid physical address for 911 emergency services and package deliveries (P.O. boxes are not accepted)
• Be at least 18 years old or have parental or guardian approval
• Complete an application through the official Snap!VRS website

What AT Is Provided?

Eligible applicants receive one Ojo PVP 900 and one router. However, in-home installation and training services are not included.

The Ojo videophone operates differently from other VRS options. Unlike traditional setups that require a television, the Ojo features a built-in screen and functions as a wireless device, enabling calls from any location with a high-speed internet connection. Users can also place unlimited international calls to other Ojo devices.

While hearing individuals may purchase an Ojo (priced at $299 for the 900 model), they are required to pay a service fee of $14.95 per month or $164 annually (as of March 2010). The device includes 20 minutes of video voicemail storage and can be programmed to retain an existing phone number or sync with another videophone on the same network. Additionally, Ojo videophones support single-line voice carry-over (VCO) and are compatible with non-Ojo videophones and webcams.

How are AT Services Provided?

Applications are available at this Snap!VRS web page. Once an application is approved and an Ojo is available, a shipment notification email is sent. Snap!VRS reports that due to the large volume of applicants, there may be a waiting list for the equipment. Ojo VPs and routers are mailed with a “quick start” guide and ASL video instructions. In-home installation and training services are not available.

Contact:

www.snapvrs.com
info@snapvrs.com
Snap Telecommunications, Inc.
1 Blue Hill Plaza, 14th Floor
P.O. Box 1626
Pearl River, NY 10965
(845) 652-7109 FAX
VP: ask.snapvrs.com
Ojo: 711-SNAP (7627)

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Free or low cost computer equipment

National Cristina Foundation

The National Cristina Foundation directs donations of used computer equipment to non profit organizations, schools, and public agencies throughout the United States. These organizations train people with disabilities, students at risk and economically disadvantaged persons to lead more independent and productive lives. To be added to their network of partner organizations, organizations with not-for-profit 501(c)(3) status, and public schools or public agencies need to submit an NCF Grant Application, which is available on line at this National Cristina Foundation web page.

National Cristina Foundation
500 West Putnam Avenue
Greenwich, CT  06830
(203) 863-9100

SHARE Foundation, Inc.

Custom-designed assistive computer technology for people with disabilities. SHARE has provided technology to people with cerebral palsy, multiple sclerosis, ALS, muscular dystrophy, as well as those disabled by strokes, accidents, and head injury. Most clients are not self-supporting and receive SHARE equipment and training at little or no cost.

SHARE Foundation
285 Old Westport Road
North Dartmouth, MA 02747
(508) 999-8482 Voice
(508) 999-8489 FAX
www.share.umassd.edu
Email: SHARE@umassd.edu

Recycles.org

Recycles.Org is a national exchange network hosting the Nonprofit Computer Recycling and Reuse Network and the Nonprofit Materials Exchange Network. Donation seekers can also post donation requests with them.

www.recycles.org

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Traditional Relay�text-to-speech using a TTY

TTY-based TRS is a free service that relays phone calls to and from people who are deaf, hard of hearing or speech disabled through the use of a “text telephone” (TTY) device and a relay operator. TRS is provided by each long distance carrier through a toll-free number (contact them directly), and within each state by dialing 711. In Massachusetts, 711 relay access is now provided by the Massachusetts State 911 Department, an agency within the Massachusetts Office of Public Safety and Security. (Learn more at this Mass Relay web page ).

Who is Eligible

Anyone can call 711 or any other TRS service at no charge.

How are Services Provided?

By dialing 711 on a TTY or standard telephone, deaf users are connected to a relay operator, also known as a Communications Assistant (CA). Like 411 for information, 711 is available nationwide; it connects callers to their local state TRS provider. In Massachusetts the service is known as MassRelay and is provided by Hamilton Relay. Nationwide 711 relay works with VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) providers as well as wireless and standard phone-line service carriers. There are some multi-lingual relay operators available.

When a person with a hearing or speech disability initiates a TRS call, the person uses a TTY or other text device to call 711 (or another TRS toll free number) and then types the number of the party he or she is calling. The CA places the outbound voice call to that person and the CA then relays communication, converting voice to text and text to voice between the two parties. The text is read on a display screen or paper printout. The text user types “GA” for “Go Ahead” when he or she is ready for a response, and “SK” to close a conversation. CAs must relay calls verbatim unless a user requests something different. CAs are required to abide by the confidentiality rules outlined by the FCC in Section 705 of the Communications Act (and outlined in the TRS rules 47 C.F.R. 64.604). Mandatory minimum standards can be found at this FCC web page.

Hearing callers may dial 711 and provide the CA their party’s 10 digit TTY number and other important information they may want to convey (their name and name of the party they are calling). The hearing caller says “Go Ahead” when he or she is ready for a response.

What Services Are Provided?

The following additional services are available alongside TTY-based relay:

• Voice Carry Over (VCO): Designed for individuals who have difficulty hearing but can speak clearly. This service allows them to use their own voice to communicate directly with the other party while receiving the response in text from the Communications Assistant (CA). It is often preferred by “late-deafened” individuals, such as older adults.
• VCO to VCO: Enables two deaf or hard-of-hearing individuals who can speak for themselves to communicate through a CA. The CA types the conversation for both parties, allowing them to read the responses while using their voices for speaking.
• Hearing Carry Over (HCO): Intended for individuals with speech disabilities who can hear well. The caller listens to the other party while typing their responses on a TTY. The CA then voices the text on their behalf.
• Speech-to-Speech (STS) Relay: Assists individuals with speech disabilities in making phone calls using their own voice or an assistive voice device. A CA, specially trained in understanding speech disorders, re-voices the caller’s speech to ensure clarity for the receiving party. No typing or special telephone equipment is required. Some long-distance carriers provide separate toll-free numbers for STS relay.
• Spanish Language TRS: Spanish-speaking CAs are available for relay services. Some long-distance providers offer dedicated 800 numbers for Spanish-language TRS.

MassRelay Features:

• CAs facilitate direct dial, third-party, collect, and calling card calls.
• 900-number calls are supported.
• Callers can select their preferred long-distance carrier for toll calls.
• Users may register their preferences with MassRelay to specify their preferred long-distance carrier and relay service options.

Note: 911 dialing through TRS is not recommended. Users should maintain a landline and a TTY for direct emergency dialing.

Contact:

MassRelay web page

To make a relay call:
711 for all relay services except Spanish-to-Spanish
(866) 930-9252 for Spanish-to-Spanish
(800) 439-2370 for TTY and ASCII only
(800) 439-0183 for Voice (hearing) only
(866) 887-6619 for Voice Carry Over only
(866) 645-9870 for Speech-to-Speech only

For MassRelay customer service:
(800) 720-3480 TTY and ASCII
(800) 720-3479 Voice (hearing)
E-mail: customerservice@massrelay.com

For TRS Complaints:
Massachusetts Department of Telecommunications and Cable
One South Station, Boston MA 02110
(617) 305-3531 Voice
(800) 392-6066 Voice
(617) 478-2591 FAX
(800) 323-3298 TTY
E-mail: consumer.complaints@state.ma.us

Click here for a list of national relay providers including providers of traditional relay.

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IP-Relay: Text-to-Speech Communication from Computers and Mobile Devices

IP-Relay services allow individuals with internet access to convert text into speech over a traditional phone line. This service enables those with speech or physical disabilities to communicate effectively using a “Communication Assistant” (CA), who facilitates text-to-speech and speech-to-text conversion. IP-Relay can be accessed via computers, mobile devices, wireless service providers, and Instant Messaging platforms. While the FCC does not mandate IP-Relay services, many TRS and VRS providers offer them as an alternative to traditional TTY-based relay.

One of the biggest advantages of IP-Relay is that deaf and hard-of-hearing users no longer need a TTY to make text-based relay calls. It also benefits Video Relay Service (VRS) users who need to send or receive precise information, such as reservation numbers, in text form. Since IP-Relay calls are internet-based, they are free to users beyond any standard internet service provider (ISP) charges. However, mobile device data charges may still apply.

Who Uses IP-Relay?

This service is designed for individuals with disabilities who rely on text for communication. It allows them to reach standard phone users at no cost. Additionally, hearing individuals can contact IP-Relay users by dialing their ten-digit number, provided the recipient is logged into the service on a computer or mobile device.

IP-Relay is especially useful for deaf users on the go, as it eliminates the need for a landline or TTY. As long as their mobile device has an internet connection, they can make calls from anywhere. The service is also beneficial for individuals with low vision, as computer-based IP-Relay allows for adjustable text sizes, color contrast settings, and the ability to save or print conversations. Users can also provide call instructions in advance, such as requesting a slower typing speed from the CA.

How Are Services Provided?

IP-Relay functions similarly to traditional TTY-based relay but operates over a broadband or dial-up internet connection instead of a standard phone line. Users can access the service through a provider’s software, AIM, or MSN Messenger. To initiate a call, users connect with a CA via their computer or mobile device, provide the number they wish to call, and specify any additional instructions. The CA then facilitates the conversation by converting text to speech and vice versa.

To use IP-Relay, individuals must register with a preferred provider and obtain a ten-digit phone number, which ensures efficient 911 emergency access. Users can switch providers at any time while retaining their assigned number. However, separate ten-digit numbers are required for VRS and IP-Relay services, and users may need different numbers for different devices, such as an office phone.

What Services Are Provided?

• Text-to-speech and speech-to-text relay services are available in both English and Spanish, depending on the provider.
• Hearing Carry Over (HCO) and Voice Carry Over (VCO) may be available if the user has two phone lines with three-way conferencing.
• HCO allows a user with a speech disability to listen to the caller while using text to communicate, whereas VCO enables a user who can speak but not hear to use their voice while receiving text responses.
• Additional features, such as email options and address books, vary by provider. Users are encouraged to compare services to find the best fit.
• 900-number calls are not supported, as IP-Relay calls are not billed to the user.
• Calls within the continental US and its territories are free.
• 911 access is available. IP-Relay users must register their name and address with their provider to ensure emergency calls are routed correctly. However, since IP-Relay and VRS require an internet connection, they will not function during a power outage or network failure. A landline with a TTY remains the most reliable method for emergency communication.

Contact:

Click here for a list of national relay providers including providers of IP-Relay.

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Video Relay Service (VRS): Sign Language to Speech via Videophone or Web Cam

Broadband internet has made it possible for videophones (connected to a TV or equipped with their own display) and Web cams (used with a computer) to connect sign language users directly with each other. Through Video Relay Service (VRS), these devices also enable sign language users to communicate with hearing individuals over the phone. VRS providers employ professional Video Interpreters (VIs) who facilitate real-time conversations by translating sign language into spoken words and vice versa. Just like specialized telephone equipment, videophones and Web cams may be available for free to eligible users, though wait times can vary. VRS calls themselves are also free.

Who Uses VRS?

VRS is designed for deaf, hard-of-hearing, or speech-disabled individuals who rely on sign language for communication. The service allows them to connect with hearing individuals who do not use sign language. Similarly, hearing individuals can use VRS to contact those who communicate manually.

The service is free for all users within the US, covering both inbound and outbound domestic calls. While international calls are possible, they may be subject to toll charges.

How Are Services Provided?

VRS calls are facilitated by Video Interpreters (VIs) who are trained to relay conversations between spoken and signed language. The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) mandates that all VIs be “qualified,” but individual providers may impose additional screening or certification requirements. Some require national or state-level certification, while others use their own evaluation standards.

To use VRS, a deaf or hard-of-hearing person places a call using a videophone with a TV or a Web cam with a computer. They provide the VI with the number of the hearing recipient, and the interpreter then calls the recipient over a standard phone line. The interpreter translates between sign language and spoken language throughout the call.

For hearing individuals who want to contact a deaf or hard-of-hearing person using VRS, the process is just as simple. They dial a VRS toll-free number and provide the ten-digit number of the VRS user they are trying to reach. The VI facilitates the conversation, ensuring seamless communication between both parties.

VIs are required to abide by the confidentiality rules outlined by the FCC in Section 705 of the Communications Act (and outlined in the TRS rules 47 C.F.R. 64.604). Mandatory minimum standards can be found at this FCC web page.

VRS users must register with a preferred (default) provider and get a ten digit telephone number to use VRS. This ensures the user efficient 911 access. The preferred VRS provider may be changed at any time (and the user may retain their ten digit number as well as their equipment). The user can still use any VRS service to make VRS calls. Users must obtain separate ten digit phone numbers for VRS and IP-Relay services. They may get separate ten digit numbers for different devices (such as a device at the office).

What Services are Provided?

• Sign language to speech (English or Spanish) and speech to a sign language relay. Spanish language is now an FCC requirement. LifeLinks advertises relay available in dozens of languages.
• HCO and VCO are generally available if you also have 2 phone lines w/3 way conferencing capability; this means a person with a speech disability may choose HCO to directly hear the person they are calling, but still use text to communicate, and a person who speaks but does not hear may use VCO to communicate with their own voice. The Ojo videophone has a 1 line VCO option (available through Snap!VRS).
• Video mail options, address books, personal 800 numbers, and other special features are advertised by different VRS providers seeking to distinguish their services. Shop around!
• Many VRS providers also have an IP-Relay service and can provide simultaneous text communication with VRS. This makes conveying certain kinds of information much easier (like data that require a high level of accuracy).
• Unlike traditional relay, 900 number toll calls are NOT available (since VRS calls are not billed to users).
• 911 dialing is available for VRS. VRS users register with a preferred (default) provider and provide their name and location. This is their “registered location.” This allows the VRS provider to route the call to the appropriate 911 call center. All VRS users must register and get a ten digit number. Keep in mind, however, that VRS (and IP-Relay) are not available if there is a power outage or loss of internet connection. A standard landline with a TTY to dial 911 directly is the most reliable option.

Contact:

Click here for a list of national relay providers including providers of Video Relay Service.

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Captioned Telephone Service-read what is said with a CapTel phone

Captioned Telephone (or CapTel for short) is telephone technology that allows people to receive word–for–word captions of their telephone conversations.  The CapTel phone looks and works like an traditional phone, with callers talking and listening to each other, but with one very significant difference: captions are provided live for every phone call. The captions are displayed on the phone’s built in screen so the user can read the words while listening to the voice of the other party.

Who Uses Captioned Telephone Services?

CapTel is for a very specific audience and will not work for everyone. The person that can benefit the most is:

* A person who is late-deafened but is very familiar with using Voice Carry Over relay.
* A person with some residual hearing who needs amplification and then the reinforcement of reading the captions.
* A person who is ready to both hear the voice of the person talking and then see the captions come across the screen a few seconds later.
* A person who fully understands that this is a relay service and that there is a third party involved.

How are Services Provided?

Services are provided using voice-recognition technology. Captioning may not be 100% accurate.

What Services are Provided?

Voice Carry Over relay with English or Spanish captions.

Contact:

For more information about how to access Hamilton CapTel and apply for a CapTel phone in the state of Massachusetts, please call toll-free,1-800-300-5658. Or you can find out more about Hamilton CapTel on-line at: www.HamiltonCapTel.com or MassRelay.

National Relay Providers (TRS, VRS, IP-Relay):