Senator Stabenow Applauds Investment to Help Michigan Farmers With Disabilities

U.S. Senator Debbie Stabenow, Ranking Member of the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition and Forestry, today applauded the announcement of $189,000 for Michigan State University and Easter Seals Michigan to continue to help Michigan farmers with disabilities overcome the obstacles they face. This funding for Michigan's AgrAbility program, which comes from the U.S. Department of Agriculture's National Institute of Food and Agriculture, will help develop and implement adaptive strategies and equipment so farmers with disabilities can continue to work in agriculture.

"Farmers across Michigan play a critical role in supporting our economy, communities, and families," said Senator Stabenow. "This support will help make sure all farmers have the resources and support they need to grow and produce things right here in our state."

AgrAbility, which is sponsored by USDA, is a nationwide program of partnerships between land grant universities and nonprofit disability services organizations. Approximately 163,000 Michigan farm operators and workers are eligible for Michigan's AgrAbility program, which also helps educate health care providers and farm equipment dealers about the needs of farmers with disabilities. Additionally, this support will help the MSU College of Engineering design and construct equipment so farmers with disabilities can safely continue their work.