Kansas Alternative Finance Program
Project Description:
The Assistive Technology for Kansans project (ATK), coordinated by the University of Kansas at Parsons, and its non-profit partner, Kansas Assistive Technology Cooperative (KATCO) operate a financial loan program for the purchase of assistive technology devices and services necessary for independence, inclusion, learning, and employment. The program is directed by persons with disabilities and provides the financial guarantee necessary for personal financing of devices such as adapted vehicles, communication devices, hearing and vision aids, powered wheelchairs, scooters, and other mobility aids. Funding received in FY 2003 from the National Institute on Disability and Rehabilitation Research Alternative Financing Mechanisms Program (CFDA 84.224C) will provide the funds necessary for this program to continue and will support the expansion of financing options.
Program development activities include reviewing and implementing additional financing options that would result in increased consumer choice and control. The KATCO Advisory Board will review financing options for the Alternative Finance Program. The FY 2000 AFP loan program offered consumers access to a low-interest loan fund, a revolving loan fund, and a loan guarantee or insurance program. With the FY 2003 award, the KATCO Advisory Board will consider adding an interest buy-down program and a program operated by a partnership among private entities for the purchase, lease, or other acquisition of AT devices or AT services.
Dissemination and Outreach efforts for the Alternative Finance programs will include public service announcements, media campaigns, informational booths at state and regional meetings, direct mailings, articles in newsletters, and presentations made to disability and non-disability groups. Assistive Technology providers and Durable Medical Equipment vendors will be involved in media outreach efforts and will be included in public awareness efforts.
Data regarding applicant characteristics, device selection, impact of access to technology, and employment outcomes will be collected and shared with the national database. Information and outcomes will be shared with policymakers.
Keyword(s):
assistive technology, funding, financial loans, financial literacy
Core Function(s):
Performing Technical Assistance and/or Training, Performing Research or Evaluation
Area of Emphasis
Education & Early Intervention, Health-Related Activities, Employment-Related Activities, Transportation-Related Activities, Quality of Life, Other - Assistive Technology
Target Audience:
Family Members/Caregivers
Unserved or Under-served Populations:
Racial or Ethnic Minorities, Disadvantaged Circumstances, Limited English, Geographic Areas, Rural/Remote, Urban
Primary Target Audience Geographic Descriptor:
State
COVID-19 Related Data:
N/A
