Blind Low Vision NZ (BLVNZ) is uniting with blind, low vision, deafblind and other organisations to ensure Kiwis living with sight loss have access to the essentials during the Covid-19 crisis.
“Access to essential services such as the supermarket and the pharmacies is a particular concern for people who are blind or have low vision,” said BLVNZ chief executive John Mulka. “While people with an access need can use public transport, taxis and Uber’s Ride sharing app to get to an essential service, many eye conditions develop later in life and those over 70 have been asked to remain at home to limit their risk of contracting Covid-19.”
“Working collaboratively with blind, low vision and deafblind organisations, we are phoning our community checking-in on the health and wellbeing and offering support. If someone doesn’t have access to essential services, we are connecting them to organisations who can help like Age Concern and Civil Defence,” Mulka said.
BLVNZ has been classed as an essential service and currently has 95% of its staff working from home, delivering service remotely. For more information, call 0800 24 33 33 or email [email protected].
