Accessibility Resources
The Housing Authority of Joliet provides low-income individuals and families with access to affordable housing assistance and support services designed to maximize independence and promote self-sufficiency. The Housing Authority of Joliet’s website includes information about each program, application requirements and information for tenants and landlords.
Its website also offers information on service agencies that can help people facing challenges, including emergency housing, employment and job training, legal assistance, mental health, mobility assistance, parenting skills, substance abuse and more.
For questions, please contact the Housing Authority of Joliet at (815) 727-0611 or (800) 545-1833, ext. 878 (relay service).
iCanConnect is a national communication equipment distribution program for people with significant combined hearing and vision loss. The program helps eligible individuals who are deaf-blind stay connected to friends, family and the world by providing equipment specific to each person’s needs.
The iCanConnect website provides information about each local program and application requirements. The local program works with iCanConnect participants to provide an individualized assessment and help with equipment needs.
ILHousingSearch.org is a free bilingual online resource for renters and property providers in Illinois.
You can search for affordable, accessible and market-rate housing to fit your needs and budget.
For additional assistance, call (877) 428-8844 (toll-free) Monday-Friday, 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Dial 7-1-1 for TTY.
Illinois Assistive Technology Program
The Illinois Assistive Technology Program (IATP) provides expertise in assistive technology and accessible information technology to all Illinois residents of all ages with disabilities and/or health conditions including family members, friends and caregivers.
IATP provides assistive technology demonstrations and allows people to see, try and borrow devices before making a purchasing decision. IATP also allows people to donate or obtain gently used assistive technology devices.
IATP also offers classes and help in finding the right AT devices for your needs:
- Tech Kitchen offers cooking classes in a home-style kitchen showcasing accessibility and adapted tools. Classes are for individuals 14 and up with any disability.
- Smart Home Technology features a five-room interactive Smart Home display highlighting home automation. Experts in assistive technology can discuss your needs and help you compare different AT devices. This program focuses on serving individuals receiving services from the Illinois Department of Human Services, Division of Rehabilitation Services (IDHS-DRS).
- IATP Makers provides custom AT devices and open-source 3D printer files for Illinois residents.
For questions, visit the contact page on IATP’s website.
Illinois Deaf and Hard of Hearing Commission
The Illinois Deaf and Hard of Hearing Commission (IDHHC) is an executive state agency that promotes education and awareness of the legal requirements for effective communication on behalf of people with hearing loss in Illinois.
The commission also provides information about:
- Assistive technology
- Hearing aid assistance
- Service animal resources
- Interpreters and CART providers
- American Sign Language (ASL) videos and publications
Illinois Elks Children’s Care Corporation
The Illinois Elks Children’s Care Corporation (IECCC) assists any child under the age of 21 who is a legal resident of Illinois with medical assistance, as long as it falls within the IECCC scope and guidelines.
Assistance can include custom-designed braces, wheelchairs, treatment programs, corrective shoes, physical/occupational therapy services and more.
IECCC provides several competitive scholarship programs. No current or past affiliation with the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks is required. Areas of study include physical or occupational therapy, special education and speech-language pathology. Scholarship application packets must be returned by March.
Explore all IECC scholarship requirements online or visit your local Elks Lodge for more information.
Illinois Hands & Voices is a parent-driven, nonprofit organization dedicated to helping families of children who are deaf and hard of hearing. It offers a wide range of resources, including educational options and how to access them, parent guides, family networking and learning opportunities, and more.
For questions, please contact Illinois Hands & Voices at executivedirector@ilhandsandvoices.com, or (630) 697-3544.
Illinois Network of Centers for Independent Living
The Illinois Network of Centers for Independent Living (INCIL) supports 22 Centers for Independent Living (CILs) across the state. The goal of these non-profit organizations is to provide community-based, non-residential support for people with disabilities so they may achieve independence in every aspect of their lives, including home, work and school.
INCIL also oversees the Home Modification Program that provides funding for improvements to make eligible homes and rental properties more accessible.
Fill out INCIL’s contact form or call (217) 525-1308 or (800) 587-1227 for more information.
Illinois Resources for Voters With Disabilities
The U.S. Vote Foundation’s Illinois Voters with Disabilities Guide offers valuable resources, including information on accessible voting options, voter rights and guidance on the voting process. This Illinois guide empowers individuals to exercise their right to vote in a private, independent and accessible way.
The U.S. Vote Foundation is a private, nonpartisan, nonprofit organization that provides voter information for each state.
For more information, you can also contact the help desk team for individual, personalized answers to your voting questions.
Illinois Spina Bifida Association
The Illinois Spina Bifida Association (ISBA) works to improve the quality of life of children, adults and families with spina bifida. ISBA works to accomplish its mission by:
- Promoting skills development and independence
- Supporting individuals and families through outreach, education and advocacy
- Investing in people by funding scholarships, mobility equipment, research and emergency help
For more information or to participate in these programs, visit ISBA’s website or call (773) 444-0305.
