NYS Commission for the Blind

Posted by PDG David Green on Sep 20, 2022

Julie Hovey, Associate Commissioner Speaks of Services Available for Legally Blind Residents

The New York State Commission for the Blind (NYSCB) provides services to individuals who are legally blind or deaf/blind to help them live independent, productive lives by offering vocational counseling, advocacy, rehabilitation training and employment services. All services are available to New York State residents who are legally blind. Legal blindness is defined as having a visual acuity of 20/20 or less in the better or stronger eye with best correction, or a restrictive field of vision of 20 degrees or less in the better or stronger eye.

PROGRAMS OFFERRED BY NYSCB TO LEGALLY BLIND INDIVIDUALS:

VOCATIONAL REHABILITATIONS PROGRAM - a vocational rehabilitation counselor helps the participant develop a plan and receive the training they need to reach their employment goal.

JOB SAVE PROGRAM - If an employed individual has a diagnosis of a progressive eye condition leading to legal blindness within one year, they may qualify for Job Save Services. A vocational rehabilitation counselor can arrange vision and job services that may help the individual retain employment and continue working in their position, as well as help the individual adapt to their vision loss.

BUSINESS ENTERPRISE PROGRAM (BEP) - BEP staff assist U.S. citizens who are interested in managing their own newsstand, snack bar, cafeteria or vending route. BEP staff provides these individuals with training to help them get licensed and up and running, along with ongoing support.

INDEPENDENT LIVING/OLDER ADULT PROGRAMS (ILOB/ALP) - NYSCB counselors assist adults who want to live as independently as possible, but who are not interested in employment. NYSCB may provide services to teach these individuals the skills to maintain their home, travel safely and keep in touch with family and friends.

CHILDREN'S PROGRAMS - Children can receive services in their homes, community and at rehabilitation agencies. Children consultants provide educational and supplemental services, vocational coordination, advocacy services and guidance to the child and their families.

For additional information see the website http://ocfs.ny.gov/programs/nyscb/ . The toll free number for the NYS Commission for the Blind is 1-866-871-3000.