NYS Justice Center to Award $8.5 Million to Not-for-profits Statewide, Continuing Access to Assistive Technology
Technology-Related Assistance for Individuals with Disabilities (TRAID) program celebrates 5 years of continued funding for vital service
The New York State Justice Center for the Protection of People with Special Needs today announced the continuation of funding for the Technology-Related Assistance for Individuals with Disabilities (TRAID) Program for an additional five years. Administered by the Justice Center and funded through federal grants and state partners, the TRAID Program promotes greater independence for New Yorkers with disabilities by providing access to assistive technology (AT) devices that enhance everyday functional abilities in education, employment, and community living.
Established in 1990, the TRAID Program allows New Yorkers to learn about and try AT devices for free before purchasing them. From adaptive equipment to support daily living needs, to devices that help people read, write, and work, the program helps thousands of people each year through device loans and demonstrations.
The TRAID Program has also brought financial savings to New Yorkers by offering free donated devices to consumers who express a long-term need. Since 2018, cost savings on devices for New Yorkers has totaled nearly $6 million.
“Access to assistive technology can be life changing. The try-before-you-buy model that TRAID offers helps New Yorkers save valuable time and resources when looking for AT devices," said Maria Lisi-Murray, Acting Executive Director of the NYS Justice Center. "By continuing to prioritize the TRAID program the Justice Center is echoing Governor Hochul's call for greater inclusion and reaffirming the State’s commitment to empowerment and affordability.”
The funding opportunity will sustain and strengthen this critical infrastructure for another five-year period, enabling organizations across the state to continue delivering high-quality assistive technology services and expanding outreach to underserved communities.
The Justice Center is currently seeking applications from qualified not-for-profit organizations interested in serving as Regional TRAID Centers. Selected organizations will assess regional needs, collaborate with community stakeholders, and manage inventories of assistive technology devices while providing training and loan services to individuals and families.
The TRAID Program serves individuals of all ages and disabilities across New York State and plays a vital role in connecting people to tools that improve mobility, communication, learning, and daily living.
Applications for the TRAID 2026 grant opportunity must be submitted by May 1, 2026.
For more information about the Request for Applications and how to apply, visit the Justice Center’s website.
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About the Justice Center
The Justice Center for the Protection of People with Special Needs (Justice Center) was established in 2013 by the Protection of People with Special Needs Act. The agency was created to restore public trust in the institutions and individuals charged with caring for certain populations. Through protection, prevention, and advocacy, the Justice Center creates a safer environment for more than 1,000,000 people receiving services across six State Agencies.
