PORT ANGELES, Wash. — John Drain is a Port Angeles resident with developmental disabilities who is furthering his passion for photography thanks to a tailored cell phone from the state’s Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS).
Drain has always loved taking photos. One of Drain's caregivers, Kimmi Andis, said he never felt inclined to get a cellphone – until it was needed for photos.
“The reason he wanted the phone is because his tablet was full of pictures and he had no more storage so his case manager arranged for him to get a phone and now this one is full as well,” Kimmi said.
Drain received the phone through DSHS, which provided about 4,400 phones for people who would not otherwise have access to technology. It’s a special kind of phone that’s created by Premier Wireless and distributed by T-Mobile that’s designed to have the basic tools, without too much.
“He uses it as a tool," Kimmi said. "Whether it’s for weather or information looking up. He looks a lot of stuff up. And he’s learned how to text."
A spokesperson for Premier Wireless said this phone has been in existence for three years and provides pre-loaded resources for those who would not normally have access.
For Drain, though, the focus is on the photos.
He shared that his goal is to have his photography featured on the news. Drain said he loves looking back on all of the pictures he’s taken through the years.
“Makes me feel good," Drain said.