RutlandHerald.com - We Are Vermont

Tech bargains just a click away



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By BARBARA HANSON Herald Corespondent - Published: March 26, 2007

Recently, the Vermont Department of Disabilities, Aging and Independent Living's Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (VocRehab Vermont) and the Vermont Assistive Technology Program unveiled a new web-based clearinghouse for affordable assistive technology, daily living and accessibility devices throughout the New England region. This new site, www.getatstuff.com, offers New England residents the opportunity to buy, sell or donate a variety of used products ranging from communication devices and wheelchairs to ramps and mobility devices.

"The goal of the Assistive Technology Exchange in New England and the Web site is to get Assistive Technology devices that are no longer being used into the hands of people who need and can benefit from them. And because these devices are often expensive, it is Governor Douglas' hope that this new service will help more Vermonters access this critical technology at prices they can afford." said DAIL commissioner, Patrick Flood.

The site is the result of collaboration between Assistive Technology programs in the six New England states. Types of items you may find on www.getatstuff.com are:

  • Vision and hearing — magnifying machines and assistive listening devices.

  • Speech communication — electronic augmentative communication devices.

  • Learning, cognitive, developmental — electronic organizers and specialized calculators.

  • Mobility, seating and positioning — walkers or power wheelchairs.

  • Aids to daily living — switch adapted small appliances or multi-sensory alerting devices.

  • Environmental adaptations — lifts, lighting controls and ramps.

  • Transportation and vehicle modifications — modified vehicles, hand controls or extended directional mirrors.

  • Computers and computer-related — alternative keyboards and mice, software and hardware that make computers accessible.

  • Recreation, sports and leisure — for example, mono skis and tandem bikes, switch adapted toys and games, musical instruments and adapted hunting and fishing equipment.

    For more information, visit www.getatstuff.com or call the Vermont Assistive Technology Program at (800) 750-6355.



    Barbara Hanson is director of community resource development for the Southwestern Vermont Council on Aging. For information about senior services, call the Senior Helpline at 800-642-5119 or 786-5991 or visit www.svcoa.org.



    Meals on Wheels

    Monday: Sweet-n-sour meatballs, broccoli florets, Spanish rice, wheat bread, apple cake.

    Tuesday: Chicken parmesan, linguine with sauce, Brussels sprouts, Italian bread, fruit cocktail.

    Wednesday: Roast top round of beef with au jus, mashed potatoes, California blend vegetables, dinner roll, chocolate raspberry cake.

    Thursday: Hot sliced turkey sandwich, mashed potatoes, mixed beans, pumpkin pudding with cream.

    Friday: Shells and cheese, garden peas, muffin, fruit.








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