Isidro spent the better part of three decades traveling the Western migrant stream with his family, moving with the seasons, supporting one another through the challenges of agricultural labor. But when his daughter Erika was diagnosed with an irreversible psychomotor disability, the family's focus shifted and Isidro's wife became Erika's full-time caregiver. When she turned 21, he and his family began navigating the complex legal system to obtain conservatorship. Each court appearance meant hours away from the fields. The strain of missed workdays quickly mounted, and the family's savings dwindled. During this time California AgrAbility stepped in. Recognizing the family’s struggle, the program offered support and connected them to resources tailored to agricultural workers with disabilities.
Staff provided translation services and advocating for the family during doctor appointments and agency assessments. Given Erika’s severe disability, staff also helped the family reinstate Medi-Cal services, ensuring she received the care she needed. Understanding the emotional toll this process had taken, California AgrAbility connected the family to agencies such as Alta Regional Center which offered Erika engaging activities and provided her mother with respite, which greatly improved the family’s morale. Through resilience and support, the Vargas family’s story serves as a testament to the strength and determination of those who face adversity head-on.
California AgrAbility remains committed to assisting families throughout the state, by providing resources, advocacy, and compassionate support.