Many Americans who have combined hearing and vision loss may soon be able to better connect with family, friends, and community thanks to the National Deaf-Blind Equipment Distribution Program or iCanConnect. Mandated by the 21st Century Communications and Video Accessibility Act (CVAA), the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) established this program to provide support for the local distribution of a wide array of accessible communications technology. Funding is provided to entities in each of the 50 states to conduct this new program.

iCanConnect is designed to effectively provide equipment/software and training to persons who are deaf-blind and whose income does not exceed 400 percent of the federal poverty level. The goal is to help ensure that people who are deaf-blind have the communication access necessary to be safe, hold a job, manage a household and otherwise contribute to their communities. Equipment that may be available through the project includes such things as screen enlargement software, video phones, computers, iPads, smart phones and deaf-blind communicators.

An application and program brochure is provided for download below. Individuals, their family members or caregivers will find information about the program including: who qualifies, what types of equipment are available, and how it is being distributed and installed.

Download Application

For information on how to apply for iCanConnect in Indiana:

Belva Smith
Easter Seals Crossroads
4740 Kingsway Drive
Indianapolis, In 46205
Ph: 317 466 2001 ext. 2110
Fax: 317 466 2000
bsmith@eastersealscrossroads.org