GRAAFF-REINET NEWS - The Blind Care Society, which has been nineteen years in the making, has finally been launched at the Te Water Hall on Saturday, 27 June.
Founder of the society, pastor Thando Petu-Ngqele, says the long-awaited day has finally arrived. The society, initially named Thandblicaso, was established in 2003.
More than 70 blind and partially blind people attended the event. Small food parcels were distributed to all those in attendance.
Among the speakers was the founder of the Nkosinathi Foundation of the Blind, Loyiso Seyise. Seyise says he'll be sharing his knowledge and experience with pastor Thando to see the Graaff-Reinet Blind Society develop and excel. He says there is hope and opportunities available.
"There's no need for the blind society to sit around and feel sorry for themselves. It's time to be independent. We will help you to do something as simple as preparing your own cup of coffee."
He says his organization also helps individuals to pursue study opportunities at various educational institutions, including Nelson Mandela University (MNU).
Although society has had exceptionally hard times financially, pastor Thando has welcomed the over warming support from Seyise. He says the organisation's empowerment code is to be a pillar of strength to the community. He says the society will be working closely together to take the society to new heights.
More than 70 blind and partially blind people attended the official launch of the Graaff-Reinet Blind Care Society on Saturday.
The group were also entertained by a community singing group "Ancient Singers band" from Vrygrond.
Another speaker was a representative for the Library for the Blind, Chairmaine Cona. Cona has urged everyone at the event to register and join the library. She says there's a section in the town's library specifically for the blind and partially blind.
"The library has several services available. Once you join as a member we give each individual a CD player named a "Daisy." We have braille books and CD's in Afrikaans, English and IsiXhosa."
According to Cona there's also a document reader at the facility. The document reader will scan the letter and read it back to the individual.
She has called upon the blind and partially blind to come and make use of the facility. She says a new library for the blind is expected to open next month on 11 July. Cona says the new library's will be to reach as many blind and visually impaired individuals as possible.
More than 70 blind and partially blind people attended the official launch of the Graaff-Reinet Blind Care Society on Saturday. Photos: Nadine Speelman
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