A $25,000 Impact Grant will put digital optical devices in the hands of veterans and retired police officers and firefighters with low vision. The grant from the H.N. and Frances C. Berger Foundation is supporting the new “Optical Device Program for Veterans, Police, and Firefighters” launched by Braille Institute Coachella Valley.
“Digital optical devices can be life-changing and improve someone’s safety and independence,” said Amy Sand, Regional Manager, Braille Institute Coachella Valley. “Equipped with an optical device, individuals with low vision can do important daily tasks such as read medical instructions and prescription bottles, retrieve telephone numbers and more.”
Various digital handheld optical equipment either magnifies or converts reading material to speech in real time. However, many of these devices range from $1000-$3000, which is cost-prohibitive for many people on fixed incomes. Grant funds will allow Braille Institute to purchase this specialized equipment, which the organization will provide on long-term loan to qualifying valley residents at no charge. Once people with low vision use these devices, they can return to doing things they love such as hobbies, cooking, reading, going to restaurants and more. Braille Institute has offered this equipment loan service to low-vision clients for years, but this is the first time the nonprofit is specifically attempting to reach veterans and retired police and firefighters because data revealed that this group is underserved.
“Veterans and first responders have contributed tirelessly to our community’s safety and well-being, and this is a way to honor and support them by providing something that enhances their quality of life,” said Catharine Reed, Vice President of Charitable Programs for the H.N. and Frances C. Berger Foundation.
The Berger Foundation is presenting Impact Grants through a partnership with News Channel 3. Representatives from both entities look for local 501(c)3 nonprofits to recognize for their outstanding work to improve people’s lives and help those in need. Impact Grants are awarded on the concept that through service, funding, and awareness, we are “Making a Difference Together.” Beyond the funds, each organization also receives media coverage about its mission across a variety of News Channel 3’s platforms including News Channel 3 News at 4 and kesq.com.
“The Braille Institute needed funds to purchase the low vision equipment, and program organizers also needed help getting the word out that these services are available,” said Jerry Upham, General Manager of Gulf California Broadcast Company, which owns and operates KESQ News Channel 3 and KPSP CBS Local 2. “We are happy to be a conduit to share more about this Optical Device Program to assist veterans, police and firefighters.”
To learn more about Braille Institute Coachella Valley, call 760-321-1111. To learn more about Impact Grants, go to kesq.com/life/impact-grants.