FAQs
What is AgrAbility for Pennsylvanians?
AgrAbility for Pennsylvanians is a project funded through the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) designed to assist farmers, farm family members, and other agricultural workers with disabilities or long-term health conditions by providing the resources and support they need to live independently and continue in production agriculture. This statewide project is a partnership between Penn State Cooperative Extension and UCP Central PA.
What services are provided?
- On-site farm assessments to discuss the daily farm tasks that are difficult because of the disability.
- Identification of modifications, equipment or assistive technology that will help a farmer complete the needed tasks.
- Referral and information regarding state and local resources and programs.
- Peer and caregiver support with contact information.
- Participation in a wide variety of educational opportunities such as farm safety days, presentations to health care and rehabilitation professionals, county crop and dairy days, and statewide agricultural expositions.
How can I get connected with AgrAbility for Pennsylvanians?
AgrAbility for Pennsylvanians
Penn State Extension
201 Ferguson Building
University Park, PA 16802
Tel: 814-867-5288
Toll-Free: 800-998-4827
Email: AgrAbility@psu.edu
Who is eligible for AgrAbility services?
Pennsylvanians with a disability or a long-term health condition who reside on a farm or ranch, or who are engaged in farming or a farm-related occupation may be eligible for AgrAbility services. A person with a disability is defined as an individual with a physical, sensory, cognitive or intellectual impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities. Examples of a disability may include, but are not limited to: amputation, arthritis, back injury, blindness, chronic pain, hearing loss, heart conditions, respiratory diseases, spinal cord injury, and traumatic brain injury.
Are there costs associated with receiving services from AgrAbility for Pennsylvanians?
There are no fees for professional training, information dissemination, technical assistance, on-the-farm assessments or educational resource materials. The AgrAbility for Pennsylvanians project does not provide direct funding or equipment. However, the project works with the Office of Vocational Rehabilitation, Pennsylvania Assistive Technology Foundation, and other third party funding sources to help customers obtain needed assistive technologies, including adapted devices or modifications.