What We Do

Project CARAT Paducah’s purpose is to increase access to assistive technology devices and services to people of all ages and abilities in Western Kentucky. Individuals with any type of disability or health condition can request information/referral, evaluation, and demonstration of equipment, technical assistance or training supports through our office.

One of the biggest obstacles to the utilization of assistive technology for people with disabilities is the prohibitive cost of acquiring, repairing, or modifying many of the devices currently available.

Often times, assistive technology devices are purchased without knowing whether the device will be a “good fit” for the individual.  The lack of functional assessments, the “must have” factor, and the lack of information as to what the device can actually do are just several of the reasons why assistive technology devices are not properly utilized.  More often than not, these devices are relegated to a storage closet or just thrown away.  These devices could be matched to individuals who would truly benefit from the device’s use.

People with disabilities can participate in device reutilization through technology matching, long-term equipment loan programs, or through equipment repair/modification programs.

Items We Need / Offer

Examples of assistive technology we are collecting for reuse and also have available for use include the items listed below.  If a person with a disability can use it, then it probably qualifies.

• Manual Wheelchairs
• Power Wheelchairs
• Power Scooters
• Power Chair Lifts
• Shower Chairs
• Tub Transfer Benches
• Walkers
• Roliator Walkers
• Canes
• Crutches
• Patient Lifts
• Bedside Commodes
• Hospital Beds
• Patient Transfer Boards
• Dressing Aids
• Hearing Aids – For more information on Kentucky’s Statewide Hearing Aid Reuse Program (SHARP). click HERE.  

Due to limited storage space please call before bringing donations of hospital beds and  power wheelchairs/scooters.

Donated items must be brought to our site during operating hours only. Please call (270) 538-6844 to make arrangements to deliver your donation.

Some frequently requested items needed for a short-term are provided to individuals  on a loan basis, which ensures that we can continue to assist others in need of the same durable medical equipment.

There is a small service fee for items provided by Project CARAT Paducah to help with our operating expenses.

 Phones For The Hearing Impaired

Project CARAT Paducah is pleased to partner with the Kentucky Commission for Deaf and Hard of Hearing. Project CARAT is the only location in the region where those with hearing loss can come see a phone available  free of charge through the program prior to selecting their phone.   Click HERE to visit the Kentucky Commission for Deaf and Hard of Hearing.