Technology

Alternate Finance Program (AFP), Managed by Assistive Technology of Minnesota (ATMn*) ATMn provides low interest loans to consumers, their families, and employers for the purchase of assistive technology devices and services. Federal funding is now available to assist ATMn* with the restructuring of it AFP. The current model is being restructured by adding a revolving loan program and a loan guarantee to increase the options available for individuals with disabilities in need of financial support, thus providing funding opportunities for people who previously were ineligible for a traditional loan.

The STAR Program, Minnesota’s AT Act Project will oversee the project through its contractual arrangement with ATMn*. Contact ATMn* for more information” ATMn*, P.O. Box 310, Maple Plain MN 55359-0310, 763-479-8239, Toll Free: 866-535-8239, Minnesota Relay Service: 1-800-627-3529; email: info@atmn.org;

Web site: www.atmn.org

The Family Center on Technology and Disability (FCTD)

“The Family Center is a resource designed to support organizations and programs that work with families of children and youth with disabilities. FCTD offers a range of information and services on the subject of assistive technologies.” FCTD has a regular newsletter called “News and Notes”, which can be found at: www.fctd.infoPhone: 202-884-8068.

Assistive Technology and Modifications Toolkit

The toolkit from the Department of Human Services contains products, services and a list of organizations and resources people may use to plan independent lives. Twice a year, the Disability Services Division updates the resources to reflect newly identified products, services and organizations. http://www.atmn.org/atmodtoolkit.pdf

“Really Useful” (Technology for Students with Learning Disabilities”:
This downloadable 30 page booklet contains brief descriptions of software and assistive technology devices that have been successfully used by students of all ages with learning disabilities. Type in “Really Useful” at www.pacer.org/publications/stc.asp

System of Technology to Achieve Results (STAR) Program
A System of Technology to Achieve Results (STAR) is Minnesota’s Assistive Technology Act program. STAR publishes a Directory of Funding Resources for Assistive Technology. This directory lists national and state funding resources, as well as, provides a 10-step Funding Strategy Plan. An online version of this directory is available in English and Spanish at www.starprogram.state.mn.us/funding_directory.htm
To request a free copy of the directory, call 651-201-2640, Minnesota Relay Service at 7-1-1 or 1-800-627-3529 or email star.program@state.mn.us