A recent email from a team member within the State of Maine reminded me to quickly add an entry with the following 3 resources:
Texas Center for the Visually Challenged: offers refurbished computers that are “free” with a $100 donation. Users will receive a registered version of Windows XP, monitor, keyboard, speakers, computer with modem and network card, and 6 cassette tapes of instruction on Windows shortcuts and Window Eyes. These computers arrive with software/freeware/trial software installed making the computer accessible from the moment it is turned on. At this writing, users with low vision may be eligible for a registered copy of ZoomText installed on the PC. This itself is a $695 value.
My experience has been that these computers take about 5 weeks to deliver and the computers vary. You may also order a laptop, but the wait time is longer than 5 weeks.
Contact information:
Lee Mann, Treasurer
Texas Center for the Visually Challenged
11330 Quail Run
Dallas, Texas 75238
Tel: (214) 340 6328
Fax: (972) 495 5344
E-mail: boblang@airmail.net
The Breadley Foundation: this non-profit is local to Maine and offers refurbished computers and training to consumers with physical or mental disabilities. Computers are offered at a “minimal cost” according to their Web site. It is not clear if these computers are available with screen reading or screen magnification software.
Contact information:
Bradley Foundation of Maine, Inc.
Jerrold H. Bradley
CEO
424 Main Street #2
Westbrook, Maine 04092
Cell Phone: (207) 615-9322
Business: (207) 591-5237
Email: info@bradleyfoundationofme.org
PCs for Maine: These computers are available in 2 configurations, a Dell 240 and Dell 280, the later offering a bit more power. The Dell 240 is $165, and the Dell 280 is $300 (these prices do not include monitors or ahipping). If you’re in Downeast Maine, these computers can be picked up at their retail location at 156 Searsport Ave., Belfast Maine. Call (207) 338-4233 weekdays until 5 PM. These computers come with a registered version of Windows XP Professional and Open Office.