Rural Solutions
Rural Solutions offers hope for many farm families and rural residents with disabilities. It helps them to either stay or return to farming and their communities. Team members know about resources in the state for rural families with disabilities. They actively seek services to improve their lives.
Farmers, Farm Family Members & Iowans in Rural Communities
Easterseals Iowa was one of the pioneering organizations that got the AgrAbility movement started. The Easterseals Iowa FaRM program, was established in 1986 and helped lead to a nationwide program addressing the needs of farmers and farm families who have acquired a disability through illness or injury.
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Services
Agricultural Work Site and Home Modification Consultation
Easterseals team members will visit with you at your home/farm. A team member will learn what obstacles and challenges you experience. Changes and modifications are suggested for each family to continue the rural way of life. Support and services are individualized to support each person’s unique needs. These modifications may assist the rural family member with a disability.
Easterseals does not pay for housing or farming accommodations. We also do not pay for assistive devices. Our team works with the family and other agencies. These groups may help with funding for modifications or assistive devices. We will also share tips and information on how to choose the right assistive device. This will help you make the best decision.
Peer Support
Peer Support is crucial for rural families. It helps them maintain their livelihoods after facing a disability or illness. Volunteers from rural families provide emotional support to those who are newly disabled. They understand the challenges because they share similar disabilities. One-on-one support is also provided to help families adapt to their new lifestyle and to use assistive technology. Personal and professional guidance has greatly uplifted many rural family members.
Services for the Entire Family
We help the whole family, not just the person with the disability. This way, we find the best way to support that individual. Sometimes the solution is an adaptation of an everyday tool. Sometimes, it includes tips for designing a home that boosts mobility and convenience. Other times, it is simply about listening and providing support after someone acquires a disability.
Education
Rural Solutions offers safety education for farm families with disabilities. This program teaches them to prevent secondary injuries, which often occur. Many members tend to "make do" instead of getting professional help for safe farming. This part of the program is very important. It helps farm families keep farming safely for the long term.
Information and Referrals
Living with a disability can be complex. Accessing support and services can be complicated and confusing. Easterseals team members help with coordinating services with other agencies.
Rural Solutions Team Members help rural families find community resources and agencies. These resources can support families in achieving their goals after a disability.
Durable Medical Equipment Loans
Durable medical equipment (DME) loans are provided to Iowans. We provide a range of equipment. This includes electric hospital beds, power and manual wheelchairs, and adaptive bathroom devices. Equipment is provided at a nominal fee and can be used for an unlimited length of time. Easterseals seeks donations of used medical equipment for use in this program.
Assistive Technology
The Lending Library lets Iowans and their support teams borrow devices. They can try them out before deciding to buy. Up to five pieces of equipment can be checked out for 30 days at no cost. This lets people try the device first. You can see if it works for you, your patient/client/student, or your loved one before buying it from a vendor. Devices range from low to high tech and support a wide range of activities. Check out our Lending Library inventory in person or online.
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Eligibility
Any farm family member with a limitation or disability can get help from the Rural Solutions program. This also applies to anyone with a disability in a town with fewer than 2,500 people. Easterseals supports Iowans of all ages and limitations. Any limitation or type of disability is eligible. Easterseals Iowa Rural Solutions offers services for free to individuals and families.
To learn more about this program, contact Intake Coordinator: Renee Bell at 515-309-1783 | TTY: 515-289-4069.
Funding
Funding for this program is provided by the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship (IDALS).
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