Federal money for the purchase of assistive technology is made available to Independent Living Centers in Massachusetts through the Title 7, Part B (7B) Program. The D.E.A.F., Inc. Deaf and Hard of Hearing Independent Living Program (DHILS) staff can assist you with the processes and required paperwork related to the program. On this page we have outlined the types of Communication Equipment that can be obtained through the program and the Eligibility Guidelines and Income Guidelines.
Communication Equipment that can be obtained includes
- Hearing Aids (both new and repairs)
- Assistive Listening Devices (FM Unites)
- TV Closed Caption Decoders
- Baby Cry Lights
- Doorbell Lights
- Visual/Vibrating Alarm Clocks
- Visual/Vibrating Smoke Alarms
- Door Knock Lights
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Eligibility guidelines
- 7B services are not available to clients of the Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission (MRC), because the money that funds 7B comes from the same Title/law that funds MRC services.
- 7B must be the last choice for services. For example, if you have
Medicaid/Mass Health coverage and need a hearing aid, you must use your
Medicaid insurance to pay for the hearing aids.
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Income guidelines
- Depending on your income level, you may be required to fill out additional
forms, or possibly pay for a portion of your services. The DHILS staff
can help you determine what steps you need to take.
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The program can also be used to obtain different types of equipment for other disabilities. The Independent Living Program staff can help you determine what equipment you may benefit from, familiarize you with the equipment listed above, and assist you in completing the necessary paperwork.
To request more information about the 7B Program, please call Christopher J. Casey at 617-254-4041 TTY/Voice, or fill out our online form.
