Happy Holidays!
Happy Holidays!Just as a reminder, the office will be closed from December 24, 2020, through January 1, 2021. It will be open again on January 4, 2021, ready to assist with lending for the purchase of needed assistive technology (AT). Have safe and happy holidays!
ABLE Tech Microloan Program
In conjunction with our partner, the Oklahoma Assistive Technology Foundation (OkAT), ABLE Tech is excited to announce an increase to the microloan program for the purchase of needed AT from $400 to $2,000. This program is a 5% interest rate loan with flexible underwriting criteria that can be repaid over a 36-month time period. To apply online visit the ABLE Tech Financial Loan page for more information or go to OkAT's website.
Hearing Aids Added as an Accepted Donation
ABLE Tech is excited to share that hearing aids are now an accepted item for donation to the Device Reutilization Program. OkAT is working directly with ABLE Tech and the Starkey Foundation Hearing Aid Recycling Program to allow ABLE Tech to accept gently-used hearing aids and other hearing devices.
Donated devices will be valued and applied to an account credit for future assistance to individuals in need of purchasing hearing aids. Any make and model can be donated, as well as accessories for hearing aids. To donate, please contact ABLE Tech at 800-257-1705. Tax receipts are available upon request.
Financial Tip
The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) has some great resources for ways to make informed financial decisions. For educational tools and answers to commonly-asked financial questions, visit the CFPB website.
Success Story
Margaret and Mike, from Tulsa, reached out to ABLE Tech for a financial loan to improve home accessibility for their daughter, Torie, who has cerebral palsy (CP). The home modifications have improved Torie's independence. The remodel included a beautiful en suite bathroom including a walk-in tub, the addition of a large walk-in closet accessible from the bathroom, and a laundry room.
According to Margaret, "Torie absolutely loves it! It is already making her life and independence so much better. Thank you to you [ABLE Tech] and everyone who helped make this dream come true for our CP Hero!"
To apply for a loan for a home remodel for accessibility go to the ABLE Tech Financial Loan page or visit OkAT's website.
If you have questions or need additional information, contact the Financial Loan Coordinator at 405-744-4254 or 800-257-1705 or by email at natalie.rohwer@okstate.edu.
Oklahoma ABLE Tech is the statewide Assistive Technology Act Program located at Oklahoma State University in the Department of Wellness. ABLE Tech's mission is to Connect Oklahomans with Disabilities to Assistive Technology (AT).
ABLE Tech offers AT demonstrations, short-term loans of AT, financial loans to purchase AT, and programs that offer free, gently-used AT and durable medical equipment (DME).
WORDS from our Borrowers
Jeffrey L, Norman, OK
AT purchased: Hand controls for vehicle
Purpose: Community Living
“This was the only way I would be able to get the equipment and be able to pay it out over time and not all upfront. This equipment gets me mobile again. I don’t have to rely on my aging mother to take me everywhere from doctor appointments, to the store, or over to other people’s homes and social activities.
Jacfus P., Tulsa, OK
AT purchased: Wheelchair lift for vehicle
Purpose: Community Living
“I chose to use this loan program because everyone was so helpful in helping me get the loan…. The device was very helpful to me to get around, continue to go to church, go to the store, shop, go to the doctor’s office and more. Thank you for being so helpful.”
Chris C., Shawnee, OK
AT purchased: Hearing aids
Purpose: Employment
"I have insurance and they paid a portion of the hearing aids, but this was the only reasonable option to pay for non-insurance covered portion of the hearing aids. It was a simple application and credit check, all very timely… I can now hear people talking in big crowds again, I can hear my co-workers better at my work, which is very loud. The hearing aids are also helping address my tinnitus in both ears.”
Peggy B., Sulphur, OK
AT purchased: Hearing aids
Purpose: Community Living
“I didn’t qualify for the program. If I did qualify, they only give one hearing aid and I needed two. I can now hear – Thank you!”
Juanita H., Shawnee, OK
AT purchased: Hearing aids
Purpose: Community Living
“We are in our 80’s and live on a fixed income. Low interest means payments will be low…. I was unable to hear conversations, but I just got my new hearing aids and I am hearing better. AS I become accustomed to them I know it will improve my quality of life.”
Julia F., Shawnee, OK
AT purchased: Hearing aids
Purpose: Employment
“I could not afford to pay for the hearing aids on my own… my audiologist told me about the financial loan program… The hearing aids have allowed me to hear the speakers more clearly during meetings at school. I can also carry on a more normal conversation without having to ask the person to repeat themselves.
James H., Sapulpa, OK
AT purchased: Hearing aids
Purpose: Community Living
“I could not get a hearing aid any other way. I am now able to talk to people again, instead of being withdrawn. I can hear and understand people now, where as before, I didn’t talk much and couldn’t understand people.”