New resource available for Broward County residents with hearing loss at no cost

New resource available for Broward County residents with hearing loss at no cost

State nonprofit brings innovative amplified phone technology to Florida to help millions with hearing loss

      TALLAHASSEE, FL – For residents of Broward County who are among the three million Floridians with hearing loss, help has arrived. Recently, Florida Telecommunications Relay, Inc. (FTRI), the non-profit distributor of amplified telephones for people with hearing loss and speech challenges, is offering an innovative new amplified telephone at no cost to local residents with hearing loss.

Amplified phones serve as lifelines for people with hearing loss, keeping them connected and engaged to loved ones.  FTRI is making the XLC3.4, developed by Clarity, available to residents for free.  It is an easy-to-use cordless phone with talking Caller ID that boosts incoming sounds up to 50 decibels. The XLC3.4 is designed to meet varying degrees of hearing loss—from moderate to severe.

To obtain the phone, permanent Florida residents who are certified as having a hearing loss must complete an application found at www.ftri.org or call 1-800-222-3448. FTRI has more than 30 regional distribution centers throughout the state, including centers that serve Broward County. Residents can locate the closest center by visiting

“Hearing loss is a serious is-sue that too often goes over-looked—our state has among the largest populations of people with hearing loss in the U.S, and these are the people we are here to help,” said James For-stall, FTRI’s executive director. “The XLC3.4 dramatically improves phone conversations—one of the first and most common challenges for those with hearing loss. It is an easy-to-use, life-changing phone that we are proud to offer to Broward County residents.”

The XLC3.4 features the digital amplification found in hearing aids to increase sound up to 50 decibels. The phone also amplifies outgoing speech up to 15 decibels so everyone on the call hears and understands clearly, and it features a loud and clear speakerphone for hands-free conversations. The Talking Caller ID announces the incoming caller so users don’t miss calls. And the illuminated Talking Dial Pad announces the number as users dial. Plus, the large, easy to read buttons help people with vision loss ensure they can operate the phone easily.

The XLC3.4 was awarded for Ease-Of-Use by the Arthritis Foundation as the ergonomic design of the phone and its but-tons make it easy to operate for those with dexterity issues or arthritis.

Finally, the XLC3.4 features ClarityLogic™ customer support service for easy setup and customization of the phone, should users have any technical questions or need support.

“FTRI is an important re-source that more Floridians need to be aware of,” said Carsten Trads, president of Clarity. “FTRI brings attention to hearing loss, an issue that is only growing every day. We are proud to partner with FTRI to make the XLC3.4 available at no cost to residents who need amplified phones.”

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