By CNIB

Helping Those Impacted by Blindness

CNIB Foundation Saskatchewan expands virtual program offerings to combat social isolation

Apr 23, 2020 | 9:34 AM

In response to COVID-19, the CNIB Foundation Saskatchewan has expanded its free virtual program offerings (e.g. children’s time, tech training, book clubs, youth groups) for people in Saskatchewan impacted by blindness.

People who are blind or partially sighted are already at risk of isolation and with the new social distancing and self-isolation measures that are now in place are at a high risk of developing anxiety and depression. As such, the CNIB Foundation Saskatchewan team moved quickly to identified new ways to hold programs virtually, as well as, created new programming that would help people who are blind or partially sighted feel socially connected and to help reduce the anxiety and stress that they may be feeling at this time.

“We’re committed to combating the negative ramifications that isolation can have on Canadians with sight loss and ensuring our community is supported during this unprecedented time,” said Christall Beaudry, the executive director of CNIB Foundation Saskatchewan. “These programs are also connecting Saskatchewan people with other Canadians across the country as the programs are open to anyone with vision loss in Canada.”

In Saskatchewan 14,300 people are blind or partially sighted.

“Another one of the needs we wanted to fill was to help parents keep their children and youth busy, as well as, opportunities for those in the community with sight to still volunteer with programs like our Virtual Vision Mates program,” said Beaudry. “I think we have succeeded as a number of the programs have a higher level of participation then we have previously seen.”

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About CNIB

The CNIB Foundation Saskatchewan is a non-profit organization driven to change what it is to be blind today. We deliver innovative programs and powerful advocacy that empower Saskatchewan residents impacted by blindness to live their dreams while tearing down barriers to inclusion. Our work as a blind foundation is powered by a network of volunteers, donors and partners in communities across Saskatchewan.

To learn more or get involved, visit cnib.ca/Saskatchewan.