independently and productively as well as to participate fully
in their communities; and
WHEREAS, Assistive technology has been proven to improve the
quality of life and capabilities of those living with
disabilities such as autism spectrum disorder, blindness,
deafness, mobility impairment, communication disorders and
learning disabilities; and
WHEREAS, Connecting individuals with the assistive technology
that they need can serve as the bridge to reaching academic,
occupational or personal success; and
WHEREAS, Ensuring people of all ages who are currently living
with a disability have access to quality and affordable
assistive technology should remain a priority for this
Commonwealth as such devices can be life-saving tools for
individuals seeking to live dignified and independent lives; and
WHEREAS, The Commonwealth is a leader in the development and
implementation of assistive technology programs for residents
with disabilities and older residents; and
WHEREAS, Working in conjunction with organizations such as
the Pennsylvania Assistive Technology Foundation (PATF), the
Commonwealth provides valuable information and support,
financial education and financing for the purchase of assistive
technology devices and services; and
WHEREAS, In the most recent decade, PATF has been able to
connect almost 10,000 individuals with disabilities with the
resources that they need; and
WHEREAS, As a result of such partnership, more than $1.4
million in low-interest loans have been granted to individuals
with disabilities since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic in
efforts to address the unprecedented need for telehealth
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