Last week the Canadian National Institute for the Blind (CNIB) mobile hub was in Weyburn. Amanda Titman, manager of programs and operations for Saskatchewan and Manitoba, says the mobile hubs offer a full day of programming for blind or deaf-blind residents of rural communities.
“In rural Saskatchewan, we don't have staff in all of our communities. It's really important though that people feel that they have the support from CNIB. We've started where we come to each of our communities, a minimum of twice a year, and bring four programs that we run throughout the day.”
The focus of last week's mobile hub was on peer support and advocacy.
“So people understand how to advocate for themselves and then looking at what services are available here in Weyburn and maybe what services are lacking. For example, public transportation. Without the support of a family member or a friend, it's almost impossible for somebody who is blind, deaf-blind, or has any kind of sight loss in the community of Weyburn to leave their house independently.”
They also brought products from their Smart Life Centres, allowing for products to be accessed and tested without having to visit larger cities like Regina or Saskatoon.
Titman discusses accessibility in the community noting sight loss can happen to anyone.
“A lot of times people in the community feel that sight loss is an older adult's concern or issue, but it's not” she continues “it could happen to any of us at any point. We make sure that our communities, especially our rural communities, are aware of the small things that can be done, like making sure our sidewalks are free and clear in the winter, if there's barriers on the sidewalk, make sure they're kept clear. Simple things like that.”
She regards Weyburn’s annual Communithon calling it a huge support to CNIB efforts in the city.
“The Communithon is one of the major fundraisers that is really impactful to clients here in Weyburn who are dealing with being blind, low vision, or even deafblind. CNIB is grateful for the partnership with the Communithon, it is hugely impactful for us.”
The funds allow for the mobile hubs to be possible as Titman says the minimum startup cost is $1000.
“It's a space rental, the gas, we've traveled, we've brought in staff from Regina and Saskatoon, and here in Saskatchewan, to put on our programs with minimal staff compared to a lot of other provinces. That's just because we'd rather deliver more programs in more communities than less programs because we need more staff.”
Find more information on Communithon this year on their Facebook page HERE.
The other community agencies that will benefit from the annual telethon are CMHA Weyburn Branch, Big Brothers Big Sisters Weyburn, Envision Counselling and Support Centre, Southeast Advocates, Inclusion Weyburn, Weyburn Care-A-Van Society, and Spinal Cord Injury Saskatchewan.