Consultant Services

Our office has applications to apply for Low Income Heating Assistance.

If you have any questions, or would like an application, call Lori at BDHHS. 

• Our Client Consultant works with Deaf and Hard of Hearing, and Senior clients who need information, referrals, and help with resolving personal issues.  We provide these same services to our homebound clients.
  

• BDHHS has established a free Assistive Devices Program for qualifying Deaf and Hard of Hearing applicants residing in Berks County, PA.
  

• We have started our own Hearing Aid Financial Assistance Program in addition to working with the HEAR NOW program.  Eligibility for both programs is based upon income.
  

• In addition, we provide applications for the Pennsylvania Telecommunication Device Distribution Program.  This Program provides specialized telecommunications devices at no charge to qualifying persons who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing.  These devices enable eligible individuals to access telephone services independently.
  

• Appointments for services are required.

BDHHS has established an Assistive Device Distribution Program

This program provides assistive devices to qualified deaf and hard of hearing applicants residing in Berks County, PA.  Assistive technology plays an important role in the lives of people who are deaf or hard of hearing.  At home, at work, or at a public facility such as a restaurant or hotel, many people who are deaf or hard of hearing depend on technology.

 Listed are some examples of Assistive Devices:

Devices for Alerting or Signaling: Auditory signals are part of our  everyday life. Alarm clocks, doorbells, telephones, and fire alarms are just a few of the auditory signals that may not be heard by people who are deaf or hard of hearing. Visual or vibrotactile (vibrating) signals can replace or supplement the auditory signals. Some examples include: Alarm Clocks, Doorbells signalers, Baby Cry, and Monitors Smoke Alarms.

These devices are free to qualifying applicants.  To qualify you must be a resident of Berks County, complete an application, provide proof of identification, and be financially eligible to receive assistance. Income guidelines are included in the application. 

BDHHS has started our own Hearing Aid Financial Assistance Program in addition to working with the HEAR NOW program.  Eligibility for both programs is based upon income.

For more information contact Lori at BDHHS.

610-685-4520 (v), 610-685-4525 (tty)

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BDHHS is working with the

Pennsylvania Telecommunication Device Distribution Program.  

 This Program provides specialized telecommunications devices, such as text telephones and amplifiers, at no charge to qualifying persons who are deaf or hard of hearing, or with speech and language disorders, or with a physical disability that prevents them from using standard telecommunication equipment, who have gross incomes of less than 200% of the federal poverty level. Other qualifications that must be met in order to participate in the TDDP include: Pennsylvania residency, qualified disability, must be at least 6 years old, and must have phone service and the ability to learn how to use the telecommunications device. 

The following devices are available to eligible persons: TTY, Voice Carryover TTY, Amplifier, Hands-Free Speakerphone, Large Button Speakerphone, TTY with Braille Display, TTY with Large Visual Display, Ring Signaler, Vibrating Signaler, and Light Signaler.

For more information contact Lori at BDHHS.

610-685-4520 (v), 610-685-4525 (tty)

Berks Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services

works with various agencies to provide counseling services.

Appointments are necessary.

For more information, contact Lori at BDHHS.

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