MDOD Newsletter                                                                         April 14, 2020
MD Resources in Accessible Ways
Governor stands in front of MD flag.  He_s wearing black pullover and khaki hat.

Governor Hogan and the entire administration is working hard to make sure COVID-19 resources are easy for all Marylanders to access.  MDOD has worked with a variety of departments to ensure all accommodations are in place to serve Marylanders with disabilities.  We are working to make websites and documents accessible to screen readers, captioning videos, and creating procedures that include access to needed accommodations. Governor Hogan announced a COVID-19 webpage in Spanish.  It can be found at:     COVID-19 Spanish Webpage  

For the latest information on Maryland's response, please visit the Maryland Department of Health's COVID Dashboard: COVID-19 webpage. There are many resources and a frequently asked questions (FAQs) section.  

Your Mental Health is Important!
COVID-19 _ Mental Health on orange background with green cartoon virus

It is important to practice social distancing, staying home, and washing hands.  But it is just as important to monitor your mental health!  It can be a scary time and feeling disconnected from friends and routines is tough.  

Be sure to follow these quick tips:
  • Take a break from the news and social media.  Give yourself a chance to refresh.
  • Take care of your body.  Exercise, eat healthy and maintain your sleep pattern.
  • Make time to unwind.  Do an activity that brings you pleasure.
  • Stay connected.  Chat with people on the phone, text.  Social distancing doesn't mean social disconnect!  Talk with someone you trust about your feelings. 

Maryland's Helpline is available 24/7 to provide support, guidance and assistance.  Call 211, press 1 to get connected.  
211 Maryland Get Connected. Get Help. Call 211_ press 1 Black letters on white background.


Accessible Smart Home Webinar 

MDTAP logo with truncated MD flag        National Federation of the Blind logo _outline of 6 people using canes in blue_ orange and green_. Tagline Live the life you want

As technology rapidly advances, its integration into our lives is becoming more common. The idea of a "smart home" is becoming less science fiction and more of a reality. This boutique will cover accessible smart home devices such as:
  • Security Systems
  • Appliances
  • In-Home Applications
  • Entertainment Systems
Presenters: 
Kennedy Zimnik, NFB, Access Technology Specialist
Andrew Drummond, MDTAP, IT Accessibility Coordinator 
Denise Schuler, MDTAP, AT Specialist



To request an accommodation, please contact 
         

Maryland Health Exchange deadline extended until June 15th!
Green and blue letters with 4-petal flower logo words _Maryland health Connection_  
Need health insurance?  The Maryland Health Connection is having a special enrollment period from now until June 15th.  For more information, visit their website