Assistive technology (AT) includes devices and services as well as training that help an individual to select and utilize a device or aid. AT devices are items, pieces of equipment or systems (both off-the-shelf and customized) used to increase, maintain or improve the functional capabilities of students with disabilities. There are many assistive devices to enable people with communication disorders to communicate effectively and efficiently. These sites provide information about different types of assistive technology and the issues that pertain to them.

Florida Alliance for Assistive Services and Technology (FAAST) -- FAAST works with Florida consumers, family members, caregivers, providers and agencies to ensure that individual's continue to benefit from assistive technology as they move between home, school, work and community. At no cost to the consumer, FAAST provides Information and Referral; resource information; assistive technology demonstrations; product research; education and advocacy. FAAST does not provide direct funding of assistive devices or services. An important note: According to the U. S. Department of Education, if a child needs assistive technology for home use as part of their appropriate public education (e.g., for homework, reading books to supplement classroom instruction, etc.) as determined by the IEP team, the technology must be provided to implement the IEP. The website is: http://faast.org/

Florida Telecommunications Relay, Inc. (FTRI Online) -- Florida Telecommunications Relay, Inc. (FTRI) is a statewide not-for-profit organization that administers the Specialized Telecommunications Equipment Distribution Program for citizens of Florida who are Deaf, Hard of Hearing, Deaf/Blind and Speech Impaired. The specialized telephone equipment and ring signaling devices provided through this program is loaned to all qualified permanent residents of Florida for as long as they need it, at no charge. The website is: http://www.ftri.org/

For more information please contact your local CMS office:

• CMS Network contact list