Happy Summer from TN! Farmers are busy planting (been a wet spring) and trying to stay cool.
TN AgrAbility and UT MANAGE had a joint meeting with the Department of Human Services Division of Rehabilitation Services/Vocational Rehabilitation Program (DVR). DVR is the main state funding source for assistive technology that assists people in getting back to their work and careers. AgrAbility works with the DVR counselors to help guide the farmers to a successful case closure that allows farmers to continue their farming profession. The TN VR policy team received a better understanding of how the financial side for farmers looks different than financial information typically reviewed for other jobs. Counselors often review income/tax info and are looking at the financial need as well as if the work counts as "competitive integrated employment." TN AgrAbility shared the white paper or "Serving Agricultural Workers with Disabilities through State VR Services." Eryn Bell, an ag economist with UT MANAGE, recommended three resources to help with business planning and to use with AgrAbility VR farmer cases:
A case-by-case review determines if a self-employment business plan is needed with VR or if a case is viewed as retention. The financial needs assessment (FNA) is the financial eligibility component that determines if VR will pay for the assistive technology. When technology is needed to retain employment, all other avenues must be exhausted, including relevant health insurance coverages. Documentation must be provided to VR verifying all other avenues for technology have been pursued, but the financial component is still present and may require customer participation. Farmers are always eligible for TN AgrAbility/Extension services and a farm visit to evaluate their barriers to work. It was a very informative meeting. TN AgrAbility staff appreciates Kim Lilley with TN Technology Access Program for leading the way and bringing everyone together for a chance to learn from one another. TN AgrAbility has fostered connections and a wonderful team across the state who want to help farmers with disabilities and streamline the funding process. The meeting continued to strengthen the working bond between TN AgrAbility/UT TSU Extension, UT MANAGE, and Division of Vocational Rehabilitation.
Submitted by Tennessee AgrAbility Project