About the KATS Network
The Kentucky Assistive Technology Services (KATS) Network is one of 56 statewide assistive technology programs federally funded under the Assistive Technology Act of 1998, as reauthorized in 2022. Administratively, the KATS Network is housed within the Kentucky Office of Vocational Rehabilitation, Field Services Assistive Technology Branch.
KATS Network Vision: All Kentuckians with disabilities have the assistive technology they need to maximize their independence and reach their highest potential.
The KATS Network’s mission is to make assistive technology (AT) information, devices, and services accessible to Kentuckians with disabilities.
AT is any item or piece of equipment (both low-tech and high-tech) used to improve and/or maintain independence in the home, at work, school or play.
Services we provide
The KATS Network provides access to AT through a network of five (5) Regional AT Resource Centers (ATRCs) across the state. The Regional ATRCs operate AT demonstration programs, lending libraries, and AT Reutilization programs. The KATS Network Coordinating Center and each of the ATRCs work cooperatively to provide outreach, information & referral services, and training on various AT topics. Technical Assistance and collaboration are also provided to state agencies and organizations to enhance the understanding of and access to AT and accessible information technology (IT).
Advisory Council
The KATS Network Advisory Council provides advice and feedback to ensure that the KATS Network maintains a consumer-driven focus. They help fulfill the mission to support a statewide program of technology-related assistance for individuals of all ages and disabilities. To learn more, please visit our Advisory Council page
Alternative Financing Program and Protection & Advocacy for Assistive Technology
The Assistive Technology Act also provides funding to states for the implementation of Alternative Financing Programs (AFP’s) to assist individuals in obtaining affordable financial loans to purchase assistive technology and Protection & Advocacy for Assistive Technology Programs (PAATs) to offer legal and advocacy services to assist individuals with disabilities to obtain assistive technology.
In Kentucky, the AFP program is operated through the Kentucky Assistive Technology Loan Corporation (KATLC). KATLC provides low-interest loans for qualified applicants with disabilities for the purchase of modified vehicles, hearing aids, adapted computers, mobility devices, augmentative communication devices, or any other type of equipment or home modification that will improve the quality of life or increase the independence of Kentuckians with disabilities. KATLC also partners with the Appalachian Assistive Technology Loan Fund to provide zero interest and zero fee loans from $100-$7,000 for assistive technology products and services. For more information visit the alternative financing section in the funding tab.
Kentucky Assistive Technology Loan Corporation
275 East Main Street
Mail Stop 2 E-K
Frankfort, KY 40621
(877) 675-0195
(502) 564-6745 (Fax)
katlc.ky.gov
Protection & Advocacy for Assistive Technology is provided through Kentucky Protection & Advocacy (P&A), an independent state agency designated by the Governor as the Protection & Advocacy agency for the state. P&A’s staff includes professional advocates and attorneys working together with people who have disabilities to promote and protect their legal rights.
Kentucky Protection & Advocacy
5 Mill Creek Park
Frankfort, KY 40601
(800)-372-2988
kypa.net