(Pocahontas)—The Prairie Lakes Area Education Agency has been awarded a $12,499 grant from the Palo Alto County Gaming Development Corporation. This funding will revitalize and expand the agency's Occupational and Physical Therapy Equipment Loan Closet, ensuring students have access to the latest assistive technology.
The Equipment Loan Closet operates like a library, allowing therapists to check out specialized equipment such as adaptive chairs, standers, and gait trainers for students to trial in their natural environments.
The grant funds will replace worn items and introduce innovative tools, including the Zing Portable Stander for infants and toddlers and the Rifton Adaptive Desk. These tools promote independence and ensure students, regardless of mobility, have a workspace that meets their needs.
The loan closet serves families and school districts across 14 counties. Families or schools wondering if a piece of equipment could help a student reach their goals should contact their Prairie Lakes AEA Physical or Occupational Therapist to begin the consultation process.



