Sensory Loss (Hearing, Vision)

The mission of the American Foundation for the Blind is to create a world of no limits for people who are blind or visually impaired. We mobilize leaders, advance understanding, and champion impactful policies and practices using research and data.

Since 1921, AFB has been a leader in expanding possibilities for the over 32 million Americans living with vision loss. A national nonprofit, we champion access and equality, and stand at the forefront of new technologies and evidence-based advocacy. We address the most pressing needs of people with vision loss and their families, breaking down societal barriers and promoting broad systemic change. Like Helen Keller, AFB's most famous ambassador, they are committed to creating a more equitable world for people with disabilities.

The National Association of the Deaf (NAD) is the nation’s premier civil rights organization of, by and for deaf and hard of hearing individuals in the United States of America. Established in 1880, the NAD was shaped by deaf leaders who believed in the right of the American deaf community to use sign language, to congregate on issues important to them, and to have its interests represented at the national level. These beliefs remain true to this day, with American Sign Language as a core value. The advocacy scope of the NAD is broad, covering a lifetime and impacting future generations in the areas of early intervention, education, employment, health care, technology, telecommunications, youth leadership, and more – improving the lives of millions of deaf and hard of hearing Americans.

The NAD also carries out its federal advocacy work through coalition efforts with specialized national deaf and hard of hearing organizations, as well as coalitions representing national cross-disability organizations. On the international front, the NAD represents the United States of America to the World Federation of the Deaf (WFD), an international human rights organization. Individual and organizational membership makes it possible for the NAD to ensure that the collective interests of the American deaf and hard of hearing community are seen and represented among our nation’s policy makers and opinion leaders at the federal level. The NAD is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization supported by the generosity of individual and organizational donors, including corporations and foundations.

Texas Health and Human Services advocates for clients, investigates fraud, and ensures clients receive the benefits for which they qualify. HHS employees respond to the needs of older Texans by ensuring their safety and dignity, helping them live where they choose to live, and supporting their caregivers.

This state commission consists of two agencies the: Texas Health and Human Services Commission & the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS).

• Medicaid for families and children
• Long-term care for people who are older or have disabilities
• SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) food benefits and TANF (Temporary Assistance For Needy Families) cash assistance for families
  • 817-321-8000
• Behavior health services
• Services to help keep people who are older or who have disabilities in their homes or communities
  • Independent Living Services https://www.hhs.texas.gov/services/disability/independent-living-services
• Adult Substance Use Services
• Services for people with special health needs
  • Blind & Visually Impaired https://www.hhs.texas.gov/services/disability/blind-visually-impaired
  • Deaf & Hard of Hearing https://www.hhs.texas.gov/services/disability/deaf-hard-hearing
  • Hearing Aid Information https://www.hhs.texas.gov/services/disability/deaf-hard-hearing/hearing-aid-information

Also see the Texas Area Agencies on Aging Directory