| ODHH was established in 2001 to provide expertise related to deaf and hard of hearing issues to Maryland citizens and to facilitate their ability of access resources and services. We hope that this website will help us to fulfill our mission by providing access to information and resources related to deaf and hard of hearing individuals in Maryland. ODHH believes that all Maryland citizens who are deaf or hard of hearing should have equal and full access to resources, services, and opportunities for participation in all aspects of community life through the provision of appropriate accommodations. Thank you for visiting us today! We look forward to serving you. |
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Governor O'Malley Proclaims September 18-24
Deaf Awareness Week in Maryland
Governor Martin O'Malley has proclaimed September 18-24, 2011 as Deaf Awareness Week in Maryland. The proclamation calls upon all Marylanders to observe the week and recognize the abilities and potential of our fellow citizens who are Deaf.
"In Maryland, we are united in our belief in the dignity of every individual," said Governor O'Malley. "It is in the interest of the State to work together to ensure that those who are Deaf have equal and full access to resources, services, and opportunities for participation in all aspects of community life."
Read more in the September Monthly Bulletin.
Still Receiving Federal Benefit Payments by Paper Check?
Source: U.S. Department of the Treasury, Financial Management Services
Have you heard the news that the U.S. Department of the Treasury is phasing out paper checks for federal benefit payments? All federal benefits will instead be paid electronically. If you receive Social Security, Supplemental Security Income or other federal benefit checks for yourself or on behalf of someone else, you must switch to an electronic payment option by March 1, 2013.
Don't wait for the deadline to make the switch. Take action today and start immediately enjoying the
many advantages electronic payments have to offer:
Safety - No risk of lost or stolen checks.
Ease- No need to make a trip to cash or deposit a check.
Control - Your money will be on time, every time.
Fast Access - You will have access to your money sooner.
Read more in the September Monthly Bulletin.
Spotlight on: Maryland Accessible Telecommunications
For many people, using the telephone is a luxury that they take for granted. However, for people who are deaf or hard of hearing, communicating by phone can be a daunting or seemingly impossible task. Missing words or mistaking meaning can lead to some avoiding the telephone altogether. Fortunately, current technology offers solutions for those who cannot use a standard phone.
Maryland Accessible Telecommunications (MAT), together with Maryland Relay, has been providing free assistive telephone equipment in Maryland for more than a decade. Devices such as amplified phones, captioned telephones, ring signalers, and TTY machines are available at no cost to qualified Maryland residents. The MAT program serves customers who are deaf, hard of hearing, deafblind, or have a cognitive, mobility, or speech disability. Assistive telephones can greatly increase independence, reduce frustration, and help deaf and hard of hearing people stay connected with family and friends.
The MAT program provides free telephone assessments. Because everyone's hearing loss is different, a variety of specialized telephones are available to meet a range of communication needs. Five evaluation centers are located in Maryland so customers (or those interested in buying their own equipment) can come to try out phones and learn which is the most appropriate. After customers receive their telephone, MAT can also provide free training and installation.
Read more in the September Monthly Bulletin.
