News from Muscular Dystrophy Association
2/7/03
www.mdausa.org

Spurred by the notion that access to technology "has the potential to change lives significantly," the Beaumont Foundation of America will be giving out computer equipment to low-income people with disabilities over the next five years..

BFA will provide $350 million worth of Toshiba brand equipment with Internet capability. The foundation also provides grants to schools and community organizations.

BFA will give away almost 2,000 technology packages this year to people living in the District of Columbia and these 21 states (Group A): Alabama, Alaska, California, Colorado, Hawaii, Idaho, Illinois, Kansas, Mississippi, Montana, Nebraska, New Mexico, New York, North Dakota, Oregon, South Dakota, Texas, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia and Wyoming.

Applications from people in Group A will be accepted until March 31.

In 2004, people living in the remaining 29 states (Group B) will be eligible to apply.

Demand for grants is expected to be high. Factors the foundation will consider when evaluating applications include: low income, demonstration of a strong need for technology equipment and indication of a place to house or use the equipment. Those whose backgrounds and needs can be most readily verified might also have an advantage.

People served by MDA who are interested in applying for a grant can call the foundation at (866) 505-2667, or register online. Applications and more information about the program can be found at www.bmtfoundation.com.