West Virginia residents with disabilities, or residents with family members with disabilities, can access assistive technology via a free service available under the Center for Excellence in Disabilities at WVU. The West Virginia Assistive Technology System (WVATS) provides access to and help with the acquisition of assistive technology devices and services. The program is free and available to all ages, all disabilities.

Assistive Technology (AT) is any device used to perform tasks that would otherwise be difficult or impossible. These devices can be as complex as computers with screen reading software or as simple as Velcro used in place of buttons or shoe laces.

The loan library is WVATS biggest service and it is located in Morgantown. WVATS does ship devices throughout the state and will attempt to make delivery arrangements for larger items. All assistive technology devices are shown online and on their new Facebook page, and are available free of charge for 30 days. WVATS also assists families with appropriate funding sources for equipment or devices.

Furthermore, WVATS lends equipment to families with short-term needs, such as a broken leg or a visiting relative with disabilities. Equipment is also made available to caregivers or to those who hope to prevent future injury, for example, by trying an ergonomic mouse.

For more information, or to see a list of equipment available, visit http://wvats.cedwvu.org or call 800-841-8436.