Computer Refurbishing Program

Computers for Ohioans with Disabilities

a man working with computer

Imagine trying to go to college or look for a professional job in this day and age without knowing how to use a computer!

Entire industries are devoted to developing software and hardware that make it easier for people with disabilities to use the computer. People with visual impairments, neuromuscular disorders and other disabilities are now able access the computer through the wonders of computer-based assistive technology. But in order for these software programs to have any meaning, a person with a disability has to have one very important piece of equipment — the computer itself.

Assistive Technology of Ohio has a statewide program that helps people with disabilities obtain their own computer. Knowledge of how to use a computer, the Internet, e-mail and social networking (examples: twitter, facebook, linked-in) are becoming fundamental basic skills necessary for community living, employment and education. Recent studies have shown that, due to financial considerations, people with disabilities are among the most likely group of people to not own a computer. People with disabilities — those who can benefit the most from owning and using a computer — are often the most likely not to be able to afford one.

How Do I Get a Computer?

 

zoom text on the computer screen

Contact AT Ohio first at 866-801-7306 (toll free) or 614-688-3222 to request an application.

To participate in the program you MUST submit an application packet which includes an application form, a participation agreement form and a Disability Verification Letter (not a form).The disability verification letter should be signed by a professional such as a doctor, rehabilitation counselor, case manager, school principal, special education teacher, guidance counselor, etc., on their business, school, or organization letterhead verifying that the consumer qualifies as a person with a disability as defined by the American with Disabilities Act. (Please DO NOT send IEP documents, medical histories or Social Security benefit information.) The signee of this letter is also verifying that the person is a legal resident of the state of Ohio.

To obtain copies of the application forms, please download them below in either pdf or word format. Copies of the forms can also be obtained by contacting Assistive Technology of Ohio at 866-801-7306 (toll free) or 614-688-3222.

FORMS

Computer Application - Microsoft Word format

Computer Application - pdf format

Participation Agreement - Microsoft Word format

Participation Agreement - pdf format

ADDITIONAL COMPUTER REDISTRIBUTION FAQs

Who is Eligible?

disabled man at computer

Any legal Ohio resident with a disability, any age, with a need for a computer, is eligible for the program. Computers are limited to one per household, every three years.

What Type of Computer Will I Receive?

Because the AT Ohio Computer Redistribution Program accepts various types of computer donations, we cannot fulfill requests for particular brands. Our minimum specifications are as follows: 1 gigahertz (GHz) processor or faster/newer, 100 gigabytes hard drive, 2 gigabytes of RAM, CD drive, flat-panel monitor, speakers, keyboard and a mouse. We do not and cannot make special accommodations with regards to increased RAM, hard drives or processor speeds. Each computer comes with either a compatible open source or  Windows™-office suite.

Please note:  By applying to our program, we default to a desktop computer, if there is not a specific request for a desktop or laptop. We will NO LONGER take back or change out a computer desktop or laptop computer if a specific request is not noted on application.

In addition, we accept Macintosh computer donations; however, we have very limited stock, with most being older equipment. We will not swap out requested Macintosh equipment and will be sent as is, fully erased with no programing or operating system or Apple software installed.

What Is the Cost?

The cost of the program to consumers is $60.  AT Ohio cannot accept debit or credit cards. Payment must be a check or money order made out to Assistive Technology of Ohio/OSU.

A pick-up option is available for $30. Pick-up must be made at the Assistive Technology Ohio office, 1314 Kinnear Road, Columbus, Ohio 43212 between the hours of 10:30am and 4:30pm. Please note, all paperwork and payment must be received before a computer is processed and is available for pick-up. AT Ohio Staff will notify consumer when computer is ready for pick-up.

Where Do I Send the Completed Application?

The mailing address is:

Assistive Technology of Ohio
Area 200
1314 Kinnear Road
Columbus, OH 43212
ATTN: Eric Rathburn
E-mail: atohio@osu.edu

How Long Will It Take For The Computer to Arrive?

A consumer’s application will not be processed until ALL documentation and check, or money order is received. This means a check or money order will remain on file and not cashed into program if there is missing documentation.  In addition, the program is reliant on OSU student employees/technicians and can take extra time prepping a computer during holiday breaks, summer break, exam, and mid-term weeks. Getting a computer ready for a consumer can also slow down when there are numerous requests at one time.

To summarize, a computer request for a disabled consumer will be processed when AT Ohio receives a completed Application form, a signed Participation Agreement form, a signed disability verification letter on a recognized Professional Organization / Company / School / Hospital / Doctor’s office letterhead and a check or money order for $60 ($30 if planning on picking-up completed/ready computer).  Please be patient.