February 14, 2019

Access Letter News and Information for the Access-Minded

Text-to-9-1-1, Accessible Rental Units Available in Cambridge, & More!

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Text-to-9-1-1 is Now Available in Massachusetts As of December 14, 2018, individuals in Massachusetts who are unable to make a voice call to 9-1-1 may now send text messages to 9-1-1 instead. This is one of the most exciting changes for accessibility to emergency services in more than 20 years.  Texting should only be used during an emergency when you are unable to make a voice call to 9-1-1. Making a voice call is still the most efficient way to get access to emergency services. Text-to-9-1-1 will be useful for citizens who are deaf, hard of hearing, or speech impaired. Text-to-9-1-1 eliminates the need to use Teletypewriter (TTY) equipment, or third party relay services to access 9-1-1.  READ MORE

Applicants Needed for New Affordable, Accessible Residential Units The Community Development Department's Inclusionary Housing Rental Program is accepting applications for wheelchair accessible studio, 1-bedroom, and 2-bedroom apartments in Cambridge. Applicants who require a wheelchair accessible unit and meet the income eligibility guidelines are encouraged to apply! LEARN MORE & APPLY

Seeking Parents with Disabilities & their Child Welfare Workers and Attorneys for Phone Interviews Are you a parent with a disability? Or are you a child welfare worker or an attorney who has worked with parents with disabilities and their families? If you have been involved with or worked within the child welfare system (also known as the child protection services), we want to hear about your experiences. The Lurie Institute for Disability Policy at Brandeis University is conducting telephone interviews with parents with disabilities as well as child welfare professionals and attorneys who work with parents with disabilities (physical, sensory, intellectual, or psychiatric) to learn about their experiences with the child welfare system. Each interview will last approximately one hour. We will not share your name or information with anyone. LEARN MORE

In Memory of Thomas P. Hopkins CCPD was deeply saddened to learn of Thomas Hopkins' passing last month. Mr. Hopkins was the Executive Director of the Massachusetts Architectural Access Board for 20 years and was a tireless advocate for the elimination of barriers for individuals with disabilities all across the Commonwealth. The disability community has lost a champion, but he leaves a long-lasting legacy.

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Commission for Persons with Disabilities | 51 Inman Street, 2nd Floor, Cambridge, MA 02139

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