Assistive technology (AT) is any item, device, or piece of equipment used to maintain or improve the functionality of people with disabilities, allowing them to be more independent in education, employment, recreation, and daily living activities. [AT] includes the services necessary to get and use the devices, including assessment, customization, repair, and training (Wisconsin DHS).
Call today and ask to speak with an Independent Living (IL) Consultant to see how AT can help you achieve your IL goals.
Explore options that work for you through our loan and demonstration program, and when you find the right AT for you, we can help you apply for and obtain funding through various sources. We are also here to assess your current technology to help you be successful.
We are a partner of WisTech, Wisconsin’s Assistive Technology Program.
Our loan and demonstration program gives you the opportunity to try out different AT and decide what might be right for you, before making a purchase. It also provides you with short-term accommodations if you need AT for a short period of time such as recovering from surgery, or you are waiting for your own device to come in. All loans are short-term with a maximum limit of 45 days.
Ready to try it out? Call today and ask to speak with an IL Consultant.
We accept donations of gently used equipment that you are no longer in need of or using. The equipment is cleaned, sanitized, and added to our loan program for individuals to borrow for zero cost. When we find someone in need of that item, we then donate it to that individual. Below is a list of items that are commonly accepted and items we do not accept. This is not an all-encompassing list of items that are accepted. If you have an item that is not on the list below, please feel free to contact us.
• Manual wheelchairs
• Walkers
• Commodes
• Toilet seat risers
• Bed rails
• Portable ramps
• Powered wheelchairs
• Hospital beds
• Personal medical equipment/medications such as diapers, bed liners, etc.
• Specialized medical equipment (leg pumps, etc.)
If you have equipment that you are looking to donate, please reach out to Alex Lena, IL Department Manager at ext. 232.
*Please note: Acceptance of equipment is not guaranteed and is at the discretion of MILC staff. MILC staff will request pictures or request to set up a time to view the equipment before determining if they will accept it. We request that the equipment be clean, and all parts be present and in good working condition. For items not accepted such as powered wheelchairs and hospital beds, we can take your information and if we find someone in need, we can share your information (with consent) to get connected.
when you find the right AT for you, we can provide you with resources on where to purchase the items as well as possible funding sources to cover costs, if needed. Read more to learn about some of the funding options we can assist with.
WisLoan is a statewide, alternative loan program that allows Wisconsin residents with a disability, or their families, to purchase adaptive equipment, AT or modify their homes so that they can live more independently. The applicant must be 18 and a resident of Wisconsin who wishes to improve their quality of life through the acquisition of items (examples include AT, modified vehicles, etc.).
Telework is a statewide, alternative loan program allowing Wisconsin residents with disabilities to purchase equipment needed to start their own businesses. The loan cannot be used for salary or inventory, rather, it can be used to purchase things like technology, telecommunication equipment, and equipment needed to perform the job. In addition to the purchase of equipment, the loan funds can be used for training in using equipment, extended warranties, and the cost of maintenance and repair.
Loan amounts depend on the item, and the ability to repay. The current interest rate is 4%. Bad credit, including bankruptcy, is not a reason to not apply. The focus is on the ability to make monthly payments. Reasons for credit issues are taken into consideration by the review board.
Contact us and ask to speak to the IL Department for assistance in completing an application.
TEPP helps people with disabilities buy the equipment they need in order to use basic telephone services in the form of vouchers. TEPP is paid for by the Wisconsin Universal Service Fund (USF). For more information or to start an application, go to psc.wi.gov/TEPP.