On Oct. 4, 2023 , Craig Peterson, the provincial director for the Canadian National Institute for the Blind, for Alberta/NWT addressed the local White Cane support group.
He emphasized three focal points which are part of the new action plan for the CNIB in the province. The three points were” to address the stigma felt by many who experience vision loss, to address unemployment of blind and partially sighted youth, and to bring awareness to the general problem of transportation for those people who are unable to drive.
Sue Boman, president of the Ponoka Whitecaners Support Group, explained it’s fortunate all handicapped people in Ponoka have access to a wheelchair van set up by the Ponoka Handivan Society.
Sanduni Kandegedarege, CNIB program coordinator for northern Alberta/NWT, answered questions posed by the meeting attendees. There was also a display of several modern visual aids.
On Nov. 7, the CNIB will host an all-day informational forum at the Red Deer Library. The team will use small session groups to demonstrate all the modern devices for vision loss, counsel those who need services and try to integrate programs with individuals. All are welcome to attend with supportive family and friends.
The next Ponoka Whitecaners meeting will be on Nov. 1, at St. Mary’s Anglican Church hall in Ponoka at 1:15 p.m.
- Submitted by Christine Kawamura