A local group helped give a Bridgeport woman who has cerebral palsy the gift of speech.

It can be difficult for people who don't know Jaclyn Shultz, 25, to understand her speech.

A new iPad with special speech software was presented to Schultz today at the Disability Resource Network. The Greenwich-based group Needs Clearing House helped get the device for Shultz, who couldn't have afforded it on her own.

"To give someone the opportunity to speak, something we take for granted, it's a wonderful thing," said Joe Kaliko, founder of the Needs Clearing House.

Bridgeport Mayor Bill Finch was on hand to honor the occasion, which marks big milestone in Schultz's life. She'll be able to use the system to communicate with her teachers and peers.