On Monday, I hosted a virtual community conversation with Commissioner Amy Porter of Aging and Disability Services (ADS) and Cheryl Cepelak, Interim Director of the Bureau of Education and Services for the Blind (BESB) to discuss the programs and services the state provides for blind and visually impaired residents, as well as seniors losing their vision.
BESB service programs include training, adaptive technology, and devices that help people who are blind or losing their vision to function independently in their homes, communities, and work places. They also work with children in school settings to implement adaptive strategies and technology, and support educators in ensuring children who are blind can fully access the curriculum.
This was an important conversation to ensure agency leadership was hearing directly from the blind community on ways to strengthen current services and suggest opportunities for improvement. I'm thankful to all who attended to bring their thoughts and ideas forward. The full conversation can be found here.
If you or anyone you know is losing their vision and could use help adapting their home or work for continued independence, please contact BESB at 860-602-4000. For more information about BESB services, visit their website here. Please reach out to my office if you need assistance. |