FREE iPads / iPads Gratis
Additional info from a phone call with SCRS 10/5/21, in blue.
Post Date: October 04, 2021 (from East LA Regional Center Notifications)
The Southern California Resource Services for Independent Living (SCRS-IL), through a program with the California Department of Rehabilitation, is offering eligible Californians a free Apple iPad to remove communication barriers and increase overall independence. Flyer HERE
The Voice Options Program offers Californians who are unable to speak or have difficulties speaking with a free speech-generating device (iPad). Through this program, any eligible Californian with a disability has the opportunity to test different applications and independently choose the one you believe is best for your needs. Once you choose your preferred speech-generating app, you will receive a brand-new iPad with the app of your choice, along with any assistive technology you may need to comfortably utilize your new iPad.
The five apps currently available to choose from are: GoTalk NOW Plus, LAMP Words for Life, Predictable, Proloquo4Text, or TouchChat HD with WordPower. (and NOT Proloquo2Go)
Eligibility requirement: Must reside in California and have speech difficulty or unable to speak and can benefit from this program.
Additional info from Tiera Walton at the Downey SCRS office:
Parent applies on behalf of their child.
5 diff apps, parent chooses from the 5 (with input from others, if child has current AAC support).
Authorization referral form completed by one of the following with a statement saying the individual can benefit: Download the form HERE
Parent gets a trial device to get familiar with the iPad and app.
OR if an SLP is guiding you, and the student is already using one of these apps, you can bypass the loan process and start the long term loan. Parent is provided with the device, app, and warranty.
SLPs can send referral to SCRS directly and the SCRS advocate will reach out to the family.