Human Services Commissioner Sarah Adelman today announced New Jersey counties can now begin applying for grants to promote communication and language access for deaf, hard of hearing, and deaf-blind residents of all ages.

            “Improving communication access for deaf and hard of hearing New Jerseyans allows our friends, neighbors and family members to better participate in activities that so many of us take for granted. We are proud to open these funds for a second time to make even more communities welcoming and accessible,” Commissioner Adelman said. “We encourage counties to check their eligibility and apply for these grants and look forward to receiving creative and innovative letters of interest.”  

The $600,000 program will be funded through Human Services’ Division of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing. Award amounts will vary and counties can receive a maximum award of $70,000.

“Communication and language access allows for equal opportunity, enhances social connections, and helps break down societal barriers. This is especially true for deaf and hard of hearing New Jerseyans,” Division of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing Executive Director Elizabeth Hill said. “These grants work to ensure all New Jerseyans reap these benefits and have autonomy in their lives. We look forward to creating a more equitable and diverse New Jersey through this initiative. “ 

Counties may use the funding to implement the following initiatives:

• Installation of hearing induction loops that improves hearing and communication for individuals with hearing aids;
• Installation of public videophones to help individuals who use sign language to communicate, and associated connectivity costs;
• Expanding access to sign language interpreter services;
• Expanding access to captioning services which helps improve access to content for those who have a hearing loss; and

Development of community, educational, or healthcare-related programming or services that are accessible in American Sign Language.

Interested counties are encouraged to consider several initiatives when applying. Some notable investments made during the first round of funding include installing hearing loops and purchasing videophones for ASL users for the Salem County Correctional Facility jail and enhancing services for veterans with hearing loss in Hunterdon County.

Applicants should define the settings in their counties where increased access will be available as a result of this funding. Settings to consider include county libraries, local community centers, independent living centers, theaters, airports, non-profit organizations focused on health equity, county jails, municipal and county government agencies, parent-run organizations and county courthouses.

Counties that propose projects that are innovative and long-lasting will be prioritized for funding. Selected applicants will be fully responsible for coordinating and distributing grant funds.

Interested applicants must be a county government agency in New Jersey. Only counties that were not awarded funding in the first round are eligible to apply. Applications can be submitted on behalf of the county human service director, county executive, county commissioner, or other relevant positions. Applications must contain a proposed estimated budget, project description, and implementation timeline.

For more information and eligibility requirements please visit here. Completed applications must be sent to [email protected] no later than 5 p.m. on February 23.