As an Assistive Technology Resource Center (ATRC) for 10 counties in Pennsylvania, we provide many services related to assistive technology. One of those services is our ReUse program.
RTFCIL receives gently used equipment as donations, cleans and sanitizes every piece, then gives them away to individuals who are unable to obtain the equipment they need through other channels.
In July 2021, while Clinton County resident Chris Scaff was in looking at the inventory of motorized wheelchairs available through our reuse program, he noticed we had a ceiling mounted lift exactly like the one he has in his home.
Chris explained, that as a person with quadriplegia, he had purchased a zero-turn lawn mower as he is able to operate it with his hands. He is independent once he is seated on the mower but did require assistance from his direct care worker to transfer from his wheelchair to and from the mower.
Staff asked Chris if he would be able to use this in his home. Chris was quick to respond that he would absolutely be able to use the lift.
Chris plans to mount the track in his basement to allow him to independently transfer from his wheelchair to the mower. Chris and staff discussed that the items he received would have cost more than $4,000.00 if Chris were to purchase it.
Without the resources from the ATRC, Chris would be dependent on others to transfer to his mower.
Chris is a great example of what successful Independent Living looks like!
