The Government of Alberta has announced funding to reduce employment barriers for Albertans who have visual impairments, July 7, 2023. (Photo: Lethbridge News Now)

By David Opinko/LethbridgeNewsNOW

Province announces $1 million to help visually-impaired Albertans find work

Jul 9, 2023 | 10:05 AM

LETHBRIDGE, AB – The Government of Alberta looks to make it easier for Albertans with poor eyesight to obtain and maintain meaningful employment.

The province has announced a $1 million grant to the Canadian National Institute for the Blind (CNIB). Minister of Seniors, Community and Social Services Jason Nixon said the goal is to have the CNIB work with employers to reduce barriers to employment.

“Every Albertan deserves equal opportunities to work. By committing this funding, Alberta’s government is expanding resources to make sure people with vision impairment have the supports they need to find meaningful jobs,” said Nixon.

The CNIB’s Come to Work program currently serves more than 200 visually-impaired Albertans. The provincial funding will allow them to assist an additional 110 clients.

CNIB Provincial Director for Alberta and Northwest Territories Craig Peterson said the program is currently available in-person in Calgary and Edmonton, and online elsewhere in the province.

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“Our Come to Work program connects job seekers who are blind or partially sighted with employers who want to discover the full potential of Alberta’s talent,” said Peterson. “Thanks to the Alberta government’s renewed commitment, we are continuing to partner with employers across the province to create more accessible and inclusive workplaces.”

According to the CNIB, services offered through the Come to Work program range from adjusting vision loss supports to hosting workshops and seminars.