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The Client & Community Services department provides assistance to Deaf, Deaf-blind, and Hard of Hearing individuals through:
Advocacy
Title I of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA hotline: 800-514-0301) states that employers must provide reasonable accommodations to Deaf and hard of hearing employees, including sign language interpreters and teletypewriters (TTYs).
According to Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act, health care facilities, social services agencies, and places of education are required to provide a sign language interpreter upon request from Deaf and hard of hearing consumers.
Consumer Assistance
DAS will help Clients understand letters, bills, and important documents; find employment, find housing; how to get an interpreter for appointments; how to apply for food stamps, HEAP, Social Security, Medical Assistance; how to use a teletypewriter (TTY) and the New York Relay Service; how to receive assistive equipment for free or at a reduced price; and much more!
Information and Referral
DAS is an information source for the community. If we are unable to provide needed information or assistance, we will refer you to the appropriate agency.
Tips for Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing Clients:
How to get an interpreter for your appointment:
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Make an appointment.
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Inform the office that you will require an interpreter for your appointment.
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If they don't understand, or if they don't know how to contact an interpreter, give them the voice number for Deaf Adult Services 716-833-1637.
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If you have any questions, or these steps are not successful, contact Deaf Adult Services as soon as possible for assistance, advocacy, or referral.
At Deaf Adult Services, we see the very best results when the appointment and the first request for services are made directly by the Deaf or hard-of-hearing consumer. We suggest that you politely inform them that you require an interpreter. Don't ask if you can have one. The obligation of businesses, agencies, and organizations to provide this service has been established by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and are not subject to any "office policy."
If you find you cannot attend an appointment, inform the business as soon as possible so they can reschedule your interpreter with a minimum of inconvenience. Client "no-shows" penalize businesses that are trying to accommodate Deaf customers.
You are welcome to contact DAS to check about your interpreter for an upcoming appointment.
Realize that not every business is trying to deprive you of the services to which you are entitled, some are simply not yet aware of their obligation. While this still may be frustrating for you, if you take this opportunity to educate them, you will pave the way for other members of the community.
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