Kid Assist donates virtual reality bike to BMS

For more than 20 years, Kid Assist Inc. has partnered with schools in Jasper County to enhance the quality of life for children and adults with disabilities.

The not-for-profit organization provides recreational and other adapted equipment and materials to help individuals increase their self-sufficiency. Kid Assist has focused primarily on kids with physical disabilities, but recently, students at Berg Middle School with behavioral issues were assisted.

Kid Assist donated an Expresso Bike to Berg this year. In addition to providing exercise, the bike serves students by reducing disruptive behaviors in the classroom, according to a Harvard University study.

The stationary bike, which is connected to a computer screen and features virtual reality games, has been warmly received by some students. The Harvard study found that a minimum of 10 to 15 minutes on the bike led to less disruptive behaviors.

Kid Assist volunteer Linda Anderson has been with the organization since the beginning. While working for Heartland AEA as a pediatric physical therapist, she came upon a similar operation in Marion County that provided equipment for disabled kids.

After learning about how great the Marion County program was, Anderson said, Kid Assist was born in the mid 1990s to help children in Jasper County. A $5,000 start-up grant from United Way put the program in motion.

Kid Assist fills a gap left by insurance for many families. Insurance companies don’t always cover all the equipment disabled people need, Anderson said. Whether it’s a walker or a special bike, Kid Assist can help.

“The most rewarding part is seeing families being able to do normal things with their children with disabilities,” Anderson said.

In addition to disabled students, the organization is changing up its game to help Berg students in other ways with the Expresso Bike. The middle school is thankful for the assistance.

“Kid Assist is a great organization that is willing to help any child with just about any challenge,” said Berg Principal Lisa Sharp. “More people need to know more about this great organization.”

Kid Assist helps adults, too. Maybe, for example, someone recently had hip surgery and needs special equipment to help them in the bathroom. Kid Assist can help.

“You never know when you’re going to need something,” Anderson said. “We’re all temporarily able-bodied.”

Anderson, who has been retired for nine years and volunteers her time, said Kid Assist accepts donations of both equipment and money. She is also looking for someone to help maintain the bikes. Call her at 641-521-1153 for more information.

Contact Justin Jagler at 641-792-3121 ext 6532 or jjagler@newtondailynews.com