What is the Voice Options Program?
The Voice Options program is funded by the California Department of Rehab through a partnership with the California Public Utilities Commission’s (CPUC) Deaf and Disabled Telecommunications Program (DDTP).
This provides eligible Californians who are unable to speak, or who have difficulty speaking, with a free speech-generating device. The goal of this program is to ensure full and equal telephone communications access for all Californians with disabilities.
What AAC systems can I get?
When it comes to choosing a speech-generating application, it is imperative to select one that highlights your strengths, skills, and fully meets your needs without leaving you feeling restricted. Through this program, any eligible Californian referred to a Voice Options provider will receive a short-term iPad to test seven (7) different speech-generating applications for up to fourteen (14) days. The seven (7) applications that will be provided are:
- GoTalk NOW Plus
- LAMP Words for Life
- Predictable
- Proloquo2Go
- Proloquo4Text
- TouchChat HD with WordPower
- TD Snap
Are there any qualification requirements?
Any resident in the state of California who is experiencing a severe communication difficulty AND does not have access to high-tech communication is eligible to apply for this program.
High-tech communication devices and systems can include:
- School-funded tablet with AAC application
- Insurance-funded speech-generating device
- Personal tablet with an AAC application installed
What is the different between a short-term and long-term iPad?
Short-term iPads include all seven (7) AAC applications and are to be used for up to 14 days only. These devices must be sent back to Easterseals. Long-term iPads are yours to keep! They do not need to be returned.
How can I apply Voice Option Program-funded AAC device?
(1) Fill out an application. You will receive an estimated wait list time.
What happens after I'm approved for a device?
(1) You are provided a trial iPad for up to 14 days.
(2) Return the trial iPad and receive your long-term device.
Are there any resources I can access while waiting?
Check out the Easterseals AAC Resource Hub for resources and videos!
Can I get technical support for my new iPad or for the AAC application?
Easterseals can provide basic troubleshooting support for the first six months. Long-term iPads come with a free one-year Applecare Warranty. All equipment and the application license belong to you.
Need Help?
If you start to feel stuck with your AAC system our Troubleshooting Guide can get you connected with help...fast!
Any additional questions or comments? vop@essc.org
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