iCanConnect is a program for individuals with combined hearing and vision loss. The National DeafBlind Equipment Distribution Program (NDBEDP) is a direct result of the 21st Century Communications and Video Accessibility Act of 2010 and is funded by the FCC. The goal is to make sure that every person with combined hearing and vision loss has access to modern distance communication tools and the training necessary to use them. Missouri Assistive Technology (MoAT) is certified by the FCC to administer the project in the state of Missouri.
The program covers a variety of equipment based on the individual participant’s distance communication needs. Individuals apply for technology such as an iPhone or iPad or computer with magnification software or a screen-reader. Other equipment may include a neckloop, Braille display, or large-print keyboard. If requested, training may be provided on the equipment provided by the iCanConnect program.
Current Application
Click on the program links to help you decide if you or someone you know might be interested in applying to participate in Missouri’s iCanConnect Program. Contact Elaine with questions about the program, EHoutman@mo-at.org or 816-655-6702.
Program Links
Frequently Asked Questions
It is a project funded by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to ensure DeafBlind people have access to different kinds of communication. Missouri Assistive Technology (MoAT) was certified by the FCC to administer the project in the state of Missouri.
A person who is recognized as “DeafBlind” by an approved professional, meets Helen Keller National Center (HKNC) Act definition of DeafBlind and has low income is eligible to apply for participation.
Equipment will be decided on an individual case by case basis depending on the individual’s communication goals, needs and abilities. An example would be the iPad with Braille display. Equipment is to help an individual meet their distance communication needs, through technology such as a telephone, cell phone or computer device, rather than equipment specifically for face-to-face communication. For a list of possible options, view the application or go to the national site, iCanConnect.
No, it will not replace or reimburse other programs such as schools, employers, etc. that are responsible for providing equipment for education, employment, etc.
Applicants will be required to submit a completed application form along with income verification documentation. Verification of disability can be verified by a community based provider with a history of providing services to deafblind persons or a licensed medical professional.
Applications will be reviewed by MoAT to determine eligibility and need as well as funding availability. Applicants will be contacted telling them the status of an application.
If an assessment is needed for an eligible applicant to determine the most appropriate device or if training is needed, it will be available through MoAT staff or consumer support provider.
The majority of equipment through the program will become the property of the consumer. Some equipment may remain the property of MoAT at least for a trial period of time.
No. Clients are responsible for any costs associated with internet, telephone or wireless services.
Yes:
National Deaf-Blind Equipment Distribution Program (NDBEDP) certified programs shall permit, without reprisal in the form of an adverse personnel action, purchase or contract cancellation or discontinuance, eligibility disqualification, or otherwise, any current or former employee, agent, contractor, manufacturer, vendor, applicant, or recipient, to disclose to a designated official of the certified program, the NDBEDP Administrator, the TRS (Telecommunications Relay Services) Fund Administrator, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC or Commission), or to any federal or state law enforcement entity, any known or suspected violations of the Communications Act or Commission rules, or any other activity that the reporting person reasonably believes to be unlawful, wasteful, fraudulent, or abusive, or that otherwise could result in the improper distribution of Equipment, provision of services, or billing to the TRS Fund.
You may report your concerns to:
- The iCanConnect program in your state ( www.icanconnect.org)
- The NDBEDP Administrator at the FCC ( NDBEDP@fcc.gov)
- The TRS Fund Administrator ( AnonymousFWA@RolkaLoube.com)
- The FCC at DRO@fcc.gov
- Any federal or state law enforcement agency
The whistleblower protection rule is located at: 47 CFR § 64.6219.
To obtain more information, you contact our office to obtain an application and assessment of equipment needs. Contact Elaine at the MoAT offices at 816-655-6702 or 800-647-8558 (TTY). You may also e-mail EHoutman@mo-at.org
