PERSPECTIVES Equipping children who have disabilities If you have a child with a mobility challenge and other difficulties such as accessing baths and toilets or communicating, or even engaging a recreational activity, the good news is there are a lot of innovative devices and equipment to assist these activities. The bad news is many of the options are expensive, and both public and private health insurance does not provide all that these children need to participate in the world around them. Enter “CATS” — the Children’s Assistive Technology Services — a 501(c)3 charitable organization operating out of Moneta. The organization manages an inventory of “adaptive equipment” which enables children to play with their friends, participate in meals and bath time, explore the world, moving and learning, and be more independent. The founder and past president of CATS is Cathie Cummins; and today’s organization is comprised of John Naples, interim executive director; board members: Laura Alexander, Aven Alford, David Bates, Beth Beach, Forrest Bassett, Francie Mitchell, Constance Mills, Susan Elmore, and staff: Cathy Watkins and Linda Dew. What kind of equipment and devices might a parent or caregiver find in the CATS inventory? The number of current units available are listed with each category, including wheelchairs and strollers, power wheelchairs, walking aids, standers, therapy equipment, bathing and toileting, adaptive seating, recreation, and communication devices and switches. CATS could use volunteers — particularly for cleaning and repairing equipment (on location or possibly at your own home workshops or sewing room). Drivers for donated items, fundraising and events, and office help are other ways you can help.
GOOD WORK Executive Summary: Children’s Assistive Technology Services gets gently-used pediatric mobility and adaptive devices at no cost to children with disabilities.
CATS / Virginia includes operations in Roanoke, Hampton Roads, Richmond, and Marion. For more information, visit http://hr.atdevicesforkids.org or the Facebook page, or call 540-493-2285.
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