Low interest loan for people with disabilities in the works

Another program aimed at financially assisting people with disabilities will soon be available, according to Council on Developmental Disabilities executive director Thomas J. Camacho.

Camacho disclosed during last Thursday’s proclamation signing declaring July as American with Disabilities Act Awareness Month that the Council received a grant about a year ago to establish a program to provide people with disabilities low interest loans.

Camacho said the program—dubbed the Alternative Financing Loan program—is funded by the federal government.

“We receive federal funds that would put money into a selected bank so people with disabilities who need assistance to function with their daily lives…can borrow money with a very low interest rate, less than ones featured in typical commercial bank loans,” he said.

Camacho explained that borrowing money through the program would present people with disabilities the opportunity to financially afford to modify homes or vehicles, or even assist with going to work.

He said the program would be available within six months or hopefully before the end of the year.

“That would make a great Christmas gift,” he said.

“Some people don’t have the sources, credit history or background, so this program is more flexible than a typical commercial loan at the bank. We have other programs that we can resort to ensure that if a person is having trouble getting the loan, this programs is to come in and see how we can help that person,” he added.

ADA Awareness Month was officially declared by Gov. Juan N. Babauta in front of about 50 people at the Honorable Pedro P. Tenorio Multi-Purpose Center.

As part of celebrating ADA Awareness Month, the TriAgency Network—CDD, Northern Marianas Protection and Advocacy Systems Inc., and the University Center for Excellence on Developmental Disabilities—will host an ADA Symposium, slated to kick off on July 12. The theme for the event is “Independence Day for People with Disabilities.” Presentations and guest speaking would be spread into 11 sessions at the World Resort.

Camacho said the symposium aims to encourage the employment of people with disabilities, ensure that people with disabilities get the health care they need, create affordable housing options, support accessible transportation services to allow people with disabilities to live in and be more active in their communities, guarantee access to high quality educational services, and make all polling places accessible so people with disabilities.

Registration is free. To register, call 664-7000 or email ada@cnmiddcouncil.org.