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ComputerS FOR Ohioans with Disabilities

Entire industries are devoted to developing software and hardware that make it easier for people with disabilities to use the computer. People with visual impairments, neuromuscular disorders and other disabilities are now able access the computer through the wonders of computer-based assistive technology. But in order for these software programs to have any meaning, a person with a disability has to have one very important piece of equipment -- the computer itself.

Assistive Technology of Ohio has a statewide program that helps people with disabilities obtain their own computer. Knowledge of how to use a computer, the Internet and e-mail are becoming fundamental basic skills necessary to compete in today's working and educational world. Recent studies have shown that, due to financial considerations, people with disabilities are among the most likely group of people to not own a computer. People with disabilities -- those who can benefit the most from owning and using a computer -- are often the most likely not to be able to afford one.

While the computers we distribute are not usually fresh off-the-shelf, state-of-the-art brand-spanking new, they do come with Internet capability, roomy hard drives, and run with speedy processors. Because of increased shipping costs, AT Ohio has had to raise the cost of the program to $50 per computer.

How Do I Get Involved?

Contact AT Ohio first at 866-801-7306 to find out the availability of computers or to request an application.

To participate in the program you MUST submit an application packet, which includes an application form, a participation agreement form and a Microsoft agreement form. To obtain these forms, please contact 866-801-7306 (toll free). Or download the forms in pdf or word format. The Microsoft Agreement can only be downloaded as in pdf format.

To download the pdf documents, you will need Adobe Reader, available as a free download from Adobe web site.

Link to Adobe Reader

Computer Application Form (word format)

Computer Application Form.1 (Page 1 of 2 pages) (pdf)

Computer Application Form.2 (Page 2 of 2 pages)

Participation Agreement Form (word format)

Participation Agreement Form (pdf)

Microsoft™ Agreement Form (pdf only)

NOTE: Please DO NOT send any money until you have been contacted by AT Ohio and received instructions and confirmation on computer availability. There is an extensive waiting list, and computers are shipped accordingly.

ADDITIONAL COMPUTER REDISTRIBUTION FAQs

Who is Eligible?

Any legal Ohio resident with a disability and a need for a computer is eligible for the program. The program is also open to families who have children with disabilities, as long as the computer is used primarily by the child. Computers are limited to one per household. Because requests for computers usually exceed our supply, persons receiving computers cannot request another computer for four years.

What Type of Computer Will I Receive?

The AT Ohio Computer Redistribution Program accepts all types of donations of computers. We will make every attempt to match applicants with the type of computer requested. Each computer comes with a Windows ™ operating system and a Windows ™ compatible office suite (word processor, spread sheet, database program, presentationk organizer, etc.) Macintosh computers are rarely in stock but will be distributed when available.

What Is the Cost?

The cost to the consumer is $50. This fee goes toward the costs of shipping the computer to your home. Other costs associated with the program are paid by AT Ohio.

What If I Need Adaptive Software?

The $50 fee does not include any software specifically for people with disabilities (screenreaders, voice recognition sofware, etc.). If you require this type of program on your computer, we can have it added for additional fees. Additional costs depend on the software required.

Where Do I Send the Completed Application?

The mailing address is:

AT Ohio
Computer Redistribution
445 E. Dublin-Granville Road
Building L
Worthington, OH 43085

E-mail: atohio

How Long Will It Take For The Computer to Arrive?

Once the application and all other accompanying information is received, you will be placed on a waiting list. Please be patient, as the watiing list can be long. The amount of time to receive a desktop computer can vary from a few weeks to 12-24 months, depending on the number of computers in stock and the donations of computers received. Unfortunately, although we accept laptop donations, and keep a laptop waiting list, donations of laptops are rare. The current laptop waiting list has more than 100 consumers.

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AT OHIO NEEDS COMPUTER DONATIONS

Is your company or corporation upgrading its computer system? Are you, an invidual owner, updating your own personal system? Do you know someone who is looking for a way to dispose of their older computer? DON"T THROW THEM ON THE TRASH HEAP!! Please contact AT Ohio at 866-801-7306 to donate your outgoing equipment. (We need computers that are upgradable, so we request that they be at least a Pentium III with 400 Mhz.) Don't forget to remove your personal or business information before donating your computer.

AT Ohio also accepts cash donations fron businesses or individuals to help cover costs associated with uptrading computers and adding software/equipment. This may be a tax-deductible contribution.

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Assistive Technology of Ohio is a sponsored program at The Ohio State University.