State of New Jersey Department of Human Services

09/26/2024 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 09/26/2024 08:25

Commission for the Blind and Visually Impaired to Host October Community Outreach Fair

Fair to be Hosted in Celebration of Blindness Awareness Month

September 26, 2024

(TRENTON) - In celebration of Blindness Awareness Month, New Jersey Human Services' Commission for the Blind and Visually Impaired (CBVI) will host a community outreach fair for all ages at Cheesequake State Park on Thursday, October 10th from 1 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.

"We encourage blind, deafblind, and visually impaired individuals and their loved ones, especially those aged 55 and older experiencing some vision loss, to join us at our community outreach fair at Cheesequake State Park to learn about the wide range of services and programs available through the state," said Human Services Commissioner Sarah Adelman. "This free event plays a crucial role in empowering blind and visually impaired individuals by providing valuable information, resources, and connections that enhance quality of life and foster greater independence. We are thrilled to host this event during Blindness Awareness Month."

The Community Outreach Fair will be held at the Hooks Creek Lake Pavilion located within Cheesequake State Park at 300 Gordon Road in Matawan. Accessible parking and food trucks will be available. The event is free, outdoors, and open to all ages.

Information tables of state programs and resources, exhibitions, demonstrations, and fun activities will be available. Representatives from state agencies including the National Federation of the Blind of New Jersey, The Seeing Eye, DeafBlind Community Access Network of NJ, and the SPAN Parents Advocacy Network will also be present.

Governor Phil Murphy's proclamation declaring October as Blindness Awareness Month will also be presented by CBVI Executive Director Dr. Bernice Davis.

"This event will provide an opportunity for people who are blind, deafblind, or visually impaired and their family members to learn about the resources and services available to them. It will also allow older adults experiencing some level of vision loss to gain awareness on how to be proactive in maintaining their eye health and independence," said Deputy Commissioner for Aging and Disability Services Kaylee McGuire. "We look forward to seeing blind and visually impaired residents and their loved ones enjoy a day of empowerment, engagement, and fun."

"Blindness Awareness Month is a time to recognize and support the crucial efforts being made throughout the state for the over 259,000 individuals living with blindness or severe vision loss," said Executive Director of the Commission for the Blind and Visually Impaired Dr. Bernice Davis. "As we honor Blindness Awareness Month with this community outreach fair, it is important to note that the work of CBVI is year-round and we are dedicated to ensuring blind, deafblind, and visually impaired individuals can fully participate in society."

If you have any questions about the community outreach fair, email [email protected] or call 877-685-8878.

To view a flyer of the community outreach fair, visit here.

Since 1910, the Commission for the Blind and Visually Impaired has worked to enable consumers to achieve full inclusion and integration in society through success in employment, independent living, and social self-sufficiency. Learn more about CBVI's programs and services here.