Sep 03, 2024

St. Bonaventure University’s Department of Occupational Therapy is now a satellite location of the Technology-Related Assistance for Individuals with Disabilities (TRAID) Program. This program offers short-term assistive technology loans to the public, including people with disabilities or short-term injuries, caregivers, parents, students requiring technology for education, healthcare providers and/or educators, and many more. 

According to the World Health Organization, there are 2.5 billion people today needing one or more assistive products. That number is expected to rise beyond 3.5 billion by 2050, with many older people needing two or more products as they age.

Determining what products might best suit a person is where SBU’s TRAID center can help. Located in room 249 of Francis Hall, the center offers access to a variety of assistive devices that people can learn about through hands-on demonstrations and take home to try out. 

Items that are available in stock, or can be acquired, include high- and low-tech products that help a person maintain or increase functionality, such as mobility aids, seating and positioning devices, environmental Smart Home control units, dressing aids, and iPads.

According to Molly Snyder, clinical assistant professor in the Occupational Therapy program, the new satellite location is the result of a collaboration with TRAID, a statewide program managed by the Justice Center, and the AIM Independent Living Center in Corning, New York.

“I am proud to see this dream become a reality,” Snyder said, “With the cooperation of Erin Morseman, senior director, and Hannah Harnas, TRAID coordinator, of the regional TRAID office at the AIM Independent Living Center, we were able to make this work. We look forward to getting the word out and most importantly the devices in the hands of those in need.”

Devices are loaned similar to a library. A person can take the device home and see if it works for them. Items can be loaned for up to 60 days, with possible renewal if there is not a waitlist for the item. 

Community members located in Allegany, Cattaraugus, Chautauqua, Chemung, Schuyler and Steuben counties, as well as SBU faculty, staff and students can loan equipment free of charge. No prescription or referral is required, Snyder said.

To learn more about the St. Bonaventure TRAID office and to schedule an appointment to loan equipment, please call Molly Snyder at (716) 375-4015 or visit 679j.shorinji-kempo.net/TRAID.