Press Release
The Henry and Sylvia Yaschik Foundation has awarded a $5,000 grant to support the Association for the Blind and Visually Impaired South Carolina's (ABVI) new Low Vision Occupational Therapy program. Through the Low Vision Occupational Therapy program, ABVI helps adults who are blind, visually impaired or have a progressive eye condition in Berkeley, Charleston and Dorchester Counties make the most of their remaining vision, reduce the impact of their disability by promoting independence, participate in meaningful activities such as hobbies and more.
Occupational therapy helps people with vision loss preform daily tasks such as cooking and personal hygiene independently, helps older individuals age safely in place, reduces risk of falls, helps some individuals join the workforce, just to name a few. Through this program, ABVI helps clients achieve their personal and professional goals via comprehensive skills training, support services and educational offerings.
“During the pandemic, ABVI realized our services are more important now than ever as people with vision loss need independence skills to be able to safely shelter in place. By adding a Low Vision Occupational Therapy program, ABVI can now further assist clients on their journey to independence. With the support of grantors such as the Henry and Sylvia Yaschik Foundation, ABVI can continue to help fill the gap in available vision rehabilitation services in our community,” said Anne Reid, Chief Development Officer for ABVI. “ABVI is incredibly grateful for the many years of support from the Henry and Sylvia Yaschik as we continue our work of enriching the quality of life of the blind and visually impaired.”
ABVI provides services out of training facilities in Charleston and Ladson and offers virtual training as well. There is no fee to become a client, and nearly all services are free of charge. The only requirement is to complete an application. To learn more about ABVI, visit www.abvisc.org.
ABVI is celebrating its 85th year of serving the visual needs of our community. ABVI is grateful to the donors, grantors and community partners who have helped us provide these critical independence training services for so many years.
