Welcome to the Tools for Independence (formerly known as the Free White Cane and Free Slate and Stylus) program, sponsored by the American Action Fund for Blind Children and Adults.
For over twenty years, we have provided long white canes and slates and styluses free of charge to anyone in the United States who requests them. We believe that these tools help increase independence for blind and low-vision people.
Program Updates
You must create an account to request items. With an account, you can:
- Track the status of your requests.
- Save your mailing address for future requests.
- Verify your account once.
- View your previous request history.
- A single form is used to request either a white cane or a slate and stylus.
- Requests by mail or fax are no longer accepted.
Eligibility
To qualify, you or the recipient must:
- Be blind or low-vision or be requesting on behalf of a blind or low-vision child under eighteen.
- Live in the United States.
- Request a white cane no more than once every six months (twice per year).
- Request a white cane no more than once every twelve months (once per year).
Request an Item Today
Request your free white cane or slate and stylus.
Reminder: You must create an account to submit a request.
About the White Cane
The white cane enables blind people to travel freely, safely, and independently. We started this program because we believe that no blind person should be without a white cane, regardless of their ability to pay.
How to Choose Your Cane Size
The canes provided are straight fiberglass canes (i.e., not folding or telescoping). Each cane is white, with a loop on top of the handle, and comes with a cane tip.
- New cane user: Subtract 5 inches from your total height.
- Example: If you are 66 inches (5’6”), your cane size is 61 inches.
- Seasoned traveler: Subtract 3 inches from your total height.
- Example: If you are 66 inches (5’6”), your cane size is 63 inches.
If you need orientation and mobility training to learn to use a white cane, contact your state affiliate to find additional resources.
About the Slate and Stylus
The slate and stylus remains a valuable tool for writing Braille, which is vital to literacy for the blind. It is the only Braille-writing device that has the same portability, flexibility, and affordability as a pen and pencil.
You will receive a plastic, four-line, twenty-eight-cell slate with the American Action Fund for Blind Children and Adults logo and a navy blue plastic stylus. Those who are blind and low vision who know Braille or want to learn Braille are welcome to submit a request.
From labeling your canned goods to jotting down a phone number, the uses and advantages of the slate and stylus are as varied as those of a pen and pencil for the sighted.