MidAmerica Airport launches sunflower program for hidden disabilities

MASCOUTAH, Ill. – For most, the sight of a sunflower holds feelings of happiness and a symbol of loyalty or adoration, considered lucky by some cultures. In the Metro East, they’re taking on a different meaning at the airport.

“It’s the hidden disability sunflower program…we look at it as it could be physical, mental, or neurological; it’s really disabilities that people don’t see. Non-visible challenges,” Darren James, director of MidAmerica St. Louis Airport, said. “This is an opportunity for them to highlight that they might need additional assistance.”

The program is aiming to help those who may have visual and auditory impairments, sensory processing disorder, ADHD, autism, anxiety, or learning disabilities.

Whether on a wristband, lanyard, or another device, the sunflower shows special meaning inside the terminals at MidAmerica.

Anyone who feels they have a hidden disability can request sunflower identification at ticket counters. Staff has been trained to recognize and offer assistance in a variety of ways.

“Anything with a sunflower—essentially it doesn’t have to be a specific item, but if it’s sunflower related, we know they may need a little more assistance,” James added.

Additionally, those with the sunflower program identification will receive a free, non-alcoholic beverage from BLV’s concessionaire.

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