Help For The Visually Impaired Available
Lions Clubs across the nation work to help those with visual impairments through
such programs such as providing Seeing Eye dogs, vision screening and providing
eyeglasses to those in need.
Due
to the commitment of several local Lions Club members. the Balke Vision
Enhancement Program has been developed. The program provides audio aids, clocks,
watches, scales and weather devices for visually impaired individuals.
The
devices are purchased by the club and made available to individuals who have
been recommended for services by medical personnel and through local social
services agencies in Independence.
To
assist the visually impaired, the clock and watch have hourly voice
announcements of date and time. The scales and indoor-outdoor thermometers are
also available. Lions Club members will provide the audio aids and technical
support on operation of the item.
Virgil
Balke, a member of the club who suffers with macular degeneration, suggested
this idea to the Lions Club board. Ray Rothgeb and Charlie Smart organized the
project and are currently promoting the program to individuals and agencies in
the Independence area.
Shelia
Marquee. a member of the state social services agency and a visually-impaired
person, will meet with the committee June 9 at 2 p.m. at the Zion Lutheran
Church to set in motion the forming of a support group for the visually impaired
of this area.
The
Independence Lions Club continues to promote vision screenings and collecting of
eyeglasses for those in need. Forms for the programs can be obtained by
contacting any Lions Club member or by calling Balke at 620-331-2434.
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