Computers for the Blind Offers Inexpensive Computers for People Who Are Blind/Low Vision
History of Computers for the Blind
Computers for the Blind (CFTB) was started in 1995 by Robert Langford as the Texas Center for the Physically Impaired. He started in his home with a couple of friends. It grew and is now located in Richardson, Texas. Bob passed away in 2021 but the agency he started is thriving through ongoing grants and donations of funds and computers. CFTB refurbishes the donated computers and other parts. Accessibility software is then installed along with other software that helps our clients navigate the computers. They have provided over 16,000 computers since 1995.
What Computers for the Blind Provides
CFTB provides refurbished desktop and laptop computers with accessibility software which has a home annual license. According to their fact sheet, you can order a computer by calling Customer Service at (214) 340-6328 or by ordering online at computersfortheblind.org. When you call, you will need to mention the configuration you would like, or the item number associated with that setup. You can also ask for financial help. Their fact sheet lists the item numbers and prices for various laptop or desktop configurations, varying from $200 for a laptop to over $300 for a desktop, depending on the computer memory and monitors. Accessories such as keyboards are priced separately starting at $10.
Computers include:
- Windows 10 Pro Operating System and Microsoft Office Home and Student 2019 (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, OneNote)
- Microsoft Edge and Mozilla Firefox Browsers
- Various helpful programs: Project Gutenberg, Bard Express, Adobe Acrobat, Typio Typing Tutorial (Demo version)
- Help files: Computer setup instructions, tutorials, training guides, and FAQ articles