Lighthouse for the Blind & Low Vision

In the midst of the difficulties of these past few weeks, we couldn't let this week pass without marking White Cane Safety Day. This is an important time to be reminded of how the white cane helps blind and low vision individuals move around freely and with independence. A life of independence is at the core of everything we do here at the Lighthouse. For more information on White Cane Safety Day visit https://lnkd.in/eq8_CUvY . . . . . #lighthousefortheblindandlowvision #blindandlowvisionservices #blindservices #lowvisionservices #whitecanesafetyday #whitecaneday #whitecane

Unfortunately, due to the storm, we have had to cancel our in-person White Cane Walk that was planned for this weekend, October 19th. We are disappointed and will miss being together for this event. If you have any questions, please contact us or visit https://lnkd.in/eTjuYZVD Thank you for your support . . . . . #whitecanewalk #stormupdate #lighthousefortheblindandlowvision #blindandlowvisionservices #blindservices #lowvisionservices

United Way is offering assistance for those in Polk County who have been impacted by the recent storm. If you have an urgent need for projects like small tree removal, tarping, muck-out and hauling debris to the curb can be added for volunteer assignment, you can visit this site to get information or submit your needs.

Our offices are currently closed due to lack power. We will update you when this changes.  While this has been an incredibly difficult time for so many, we want you to know that we are here for you and together, as a community, we will stand strong.  If you are in need of assistance, the Barnett Foundation is offering help.  Please see below for details, including how to contact them for assistance.   TAMPA, FLORIDA, October 13- As the Tampa Bay area continues to recover from both hurricane Helene and Milton, we would like to offer assistance to members of the community who have been affected. In accordance with federal regulations, The Barnett Foundation cannot provide direct natural disaster relief however, we are able to connect members of the community with local organizations as well as state and federal resources. If you, your family, or your loved ones have been affected by please contact us directly at thebarnettfoundation@gmail.com or text HELP to 813-510-7066.

Please note that our Tampa office will now be closed through Friday. We expect to open Monday and will continue to update you. Please take care and stay safe!

This is important information about special needs shelters. Please follow local instructions and most importantly, stay safe! https://lnkd.in/ex6xKQaG

Due to the impending storm, the Tampa Lighthouse office will close Monday, October 7th through Wednesday, October 9th. Our Polk County office will be closed Tuesday, October 8th through Thursday, October 10th. We will continue to update you if anything changes.  Please Stay Safe and follow your local orders!

It's time to think ahead about taxes: You can make a Qualified Charitable Distribution (QMD) at age 70.5 Your support to the Lighthouse for the Blind & Low Vision helps us provide free programs and services for a life of independence. You must make withdrawals from your IRA, often referred to as an RMDs (required minimum distributions). Satisfying this requirement is an amazing opportunity to give to the mission of the Lighthouse while reducing tax liability.   PS- Don't forget - gifts of stock and other noncash gifts always appreciated!  Learn more about us at https://lnkd.in/ewerD8Vr . . . . . #lighthousefortheblindandlowvision #blindandlowvisionservices #blindservices #lowvisionservices #nonprofit #lighthousefortheblind #independencefortheblind

We are grateful to announce that all of the Lighthouse for the Blind & Low Vision offices and programs are currently open and running. We are, however, heartbroken about the loss and damage throughout our communities and the entire Southeast. If you are a client that has been affected by Hurricane Helene and are in need of resources, please contact us so we can determine how we can best help. You can email Tom Swanston at tom.swanston@lighthouseblv.org. Together, we stand strong and will support you and your families however we can.

The Lighthouse for the Blind & Low Vision offices are open. Our hearts go out to all affected by this devastating storm. Together as a community we will come through this with strength.