Millions of Americans still aren't prepared for the switch to digital television. It can be a difficult process for people with disabilities, including the hearing impaired. A new call-center in downtown Sioux Falls is now helping those across the country make the switch.

Communication Service for the Deaf in Sioux Falls received more than $1 million from the FCC last month to get the word out about the DTV transition to Americans who are deaf. That money is now being spent on a call center to help those who are deaf and hard of hearing solve their digital TV dilemmas. 

For many Americans, getting help with the digital TV transition isn't as easy as picking up the phone. 

"There's no other center like this within the country that offers those abilities to the individuals out there who are needing help with this conversion," call center coordinator T.J. Law said. 

A specialized call center in downtown Sioux Falls is now open to help people who are deaf and hard of hearing get connected with people who can help them through the switch. 

"So, whether they are deaf, whether they are an interpreting student or someone who is hard of hearing, and just happens to be fluent in sign language, those are the people we needed to find for the call center as well," CSD communications director Derric Miller said. 

Technology like video phones are being used to work through issues people in the deaf community may have hooking up their converter boxes and making sure they work. 

"Anybody out there that can get on our website and contact us through that has the availability to pick and choose their means or mode of communication with us," Law said. 

Communication that will be a valuable resource as the digital deadline approaches.

CSD has a six month contract to have the call center open so it will close May 30.  Officials say the DTV deadline extension from February 17 to June 12 offers some relief in helping everyone who needs it.