LEXINGTON, Ky. — The University of Kentucky Physical Therapy program is taking learning outside of the classroom all while helping those in the community get needed medical equipment. 

According to the CDC, one in four Americans live with a disability; however, necessary equipment isn't always cheap. The average cost of a wheelchair, for example, ranges from $500 to $2,000 without insurance.

That's why in 2013, Dr. Partick Kitzman, a professor at the UK, decided to create a service learning program where students refurbish medical equipment for those who may not be able to afford it.

Most of the equipment they refurbish comes from community donations, but coronavirus concerns have forced them to close donations until further notice.  

“You do not have to prove need, you just need to put in a request, and if we have the equipment, we'll get it out to you,” Kitzman said.

The group is currently trying to find more ways to safely distribute equipment to those in need, but for right now, they are only allowing for curbside pickup.