Beyond the emotional and physical challenges of adapting to a disability, farm families often face financial challenges and uncertainties about the future of their farm operation. AgrAbility offers assistance and solutions that can make a difference. |
Who can AgrAbility help?
Any Michigan farmer or family member who has a disability or chronic health condition, regardless of the onset of the condition, is eligible for AgrAbility services. Services offered include farm assessments, suggestions of assistive equipment, counseling and physical therapy.
What services does AgrAbility offer?
AgrAbility offers several services that are tailored to meet the needs of the individual.
- If the farmer has trouble accessing his/her equipment, an ag engineer or occupational therapist on the AgrAbility staff will make an on-site farm assessment to determine what can be done to help the farmer. The ag engineer will locate the equipment, help with installation, and assist the farmer with learning to use it.
- If a farmer needs personal assistance (e.g., hearing aids) that does not require an on-site farm assessment, Michigan Rehabilitation Services (MRS) can assist the farmer.
- Once the farmer starts receiving services from MRS he/she can also receive counseling, physical therapy, and vocational rehabilitation if they are needed and wanted.
- Once the assistive technology/equipment is selected, MRS works with the farmer to help identify a means to pay for it.
- AgrAbility has Peer Network Support Groups to provide forums for farmers who would like to share their experience and seek advice from other farmers with a similar disability.
- AgrAbility provides a list of contacts for farm and disability-related resources, such as, assistive technology, farm equipment, ideas for modification of equipment, and national agencies that can offer assistance.
Does the farmer pay for AgrAbility services?
The information and referral services and farm-site assessments are offered at no cost to the farmer. The cost of new equipment or modifications made to old equipment, the farm operation, or the farm home is not typically covered with AgrAbility funds. Although some assistance with the cost of the equipment may be available from MRS and Easter Seals, the farmer is always asked to share the costs to the extent possible.
Has AgrAbility helped many people?
Yes! The following map shows the counties (highlighted in green) where farmers have utilized our services so far:
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