DES MOINES, Iowa – October 21 – First Interstate is supporting Variety – the Children’s Charity of Iowa with a $5,000 donation to help children across the state gain greater mobility and independence.

Of the contribution, $3,500 will sponsor a gait trainer through Variety’s specialized mobility program, which provides adaptive equipment to Iowa children with special needs. The remaining $1,500 will support Variety’s upcoming Casino Night fundraiser in Des Moines.

For families whose children need specialized mobility equipment, having the right device can open opportunities to move, strengthen new skills, and participate more fully in everyday life. Variety works with physical therapists throughout Iowa to identify children who could benefit from equipment including gait trainers, adaptive bicycles, standers, and specialized strollers. The organization notes that this equipment can provide physical and therapeutic benefits but can be cost-prohibitive for families and is rarely covered by insurance.

First Interstate’s mobility sponsorship will fund a gait trainer, a specialized piece of equipment that can be configured to accommodate a child’s individual needs. According to Variety’s sponsorship materials, gait trainers can help children achieve proper positioning for walking while supporting a more natural gait pattern.

“Every child deserves the opportunity to take part in their community in ways that build confidence and independence,” said Steven Frederick, Commercial Market President at First Interstate. “We’re proud that our support can help put a piece of mobility equipment directly into the hands of a child who needs it while also supporting an event that helps Variety continue this important work.”