Weather radio giveaway for the deaf and hard of hearing

KENTUCKY (WSAZ) - Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear has announced a program that is giving away free specially made weather radios to Kentuckians who are deaf or hard-of-hearing.

The program called “Moore Safe Nights” is a multistate agency collaboration honoring the late deaf and hard-of-hearing advocate Virginia Moore. Virginia became a pandemic-era fixture in Kentucky households as the sign language interpreter for Beshear’s daily COVID-19 briefings. She died in April 2023 from complications after battling uterine cancer.

“Virginia was a tireless advocate for the deaf and hard-of-hearing community and was committed to making sure they have access to information just like any other Kentuckian,” said Gov. Beshear. “I am committed to carrying on her legacy by ensuring that all of our citizens have the resources they need to stay safe and informed during severe weather emergencies.”

The program has acquired 700 weather alert radios specifically adapted for individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing. The NOAA official radios have pillow-shaker and strobe-light attachments to alert people of severe weather warnings issued by the National Weather Service. The radios also have text displays that light up, so users know the type of weather warning issued.

The radios are on a first come, first served basis. If you would like to apply to receive one you can click here.