I've gotten tons of help from Vocational Rehab in my state (Indiana) so that might be worth looking into!

In my state, NY, I have always recieved help from the Commission for the Blind and Visually Handicapped. I and my brothers and sisters have always been able to get most things we needed, telescopic devices, large-print and audio books, computer equipment, even eyeglasses. They helped me go to college as well, and in particular help people get help they need in the form of training and such for jobs. I believe there are such organizations in most states. Eligibility requirements were not based on income, but they will insist on an exam by a low-vision specialist. Your vision must be below 20-200 with vision aids like glasses, to be considered legally blind.

A lot of local and state rehab agencies do fund the purchase of such devices, especially if you plan to use them to further your education or find employment.

Interestingly enough, there are many smartphone applications that both perform the same functions as these multi-hundred dollar magnifiers and are entirely free.

Hopefully someone will answer with more info, but you can contact your representatives in state and federal government. Their job is to help you access those resources. Remember, squeaky wheel gets the grease.