Deaf, Deaf-Blind and Hard of Hearing Services

The Tennessee Department of Human Services' Division of Rehabilitation Services recognizes the unique needs of individuals who are Deaf, Deaf-Blind and Hard of Hearing. In 2005, the division established a new unit to provide specialized vocational rehabilitation services to eligible clients who are deaf, deaf-blind or hard of hearing. VR Counselors who are specially trained to work and communicate with persons who are deaf, deaf-blind or hard of hearing, provide services that enable their clients to enter, retain, or return to competitive employment. Some of these services may be based upon economic need and may require financial participation on the part of the client. These Counselors are located in vocational rehabilitation regional offices across the state. Services are individualized and depending upon a person's needs may include the following:

Deaf and Hard of Hearing Fact Sheet

Emergency Preparedness Go Kits Available at Participating Locations

The Tennessee Department of Human Services (TDHS) is partnering with the Tennessee Emergency Management Agency (TEMA) is to provide 300 free Emergency Go-Kits to Tennesseans who are members of our deaf, hard of hearing, blind, and low vision communities. The keys to effective disaster preparedness – stay informed, make a plan, and build a kit - apply to all of us, but people with access and functional needs or disabilities should approach preparedness planning with additional considerations. The free go-kits will be available until supplies last and distribution will be limited to one requested go-kit per individual or caregiver household.

Emergency Go-Kit Distribution Locations

Kits will be available for pick-up during the location’s regular hours of operation. Please contact the location directly with any questions.