Nicole Taylor
Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
The World-Spectator
CNIB Mobile Hub brought accessibility support to Moosomin last week.
People who are blind or have low vision had an opportunity to explore assistive technology, learn about advocacy and connect with others when the CNIB Mobile Hub visited Moosomin last Wednesday.
The free event was held Sept. 2 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Moosomin Public Library.
The Mobile Hub offered three main areas of programming: peer support, advocacy and assistive technology.
Attendees had the chance to discuss their experiences, learn about advocacy and explore a variety of assistive-technology devices, including digital magnifiers, smartphone apps and Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses.
The team also demonstrated Be My Eyes, an app that connects people who are blind or have low vision with sighted volunteers through video calls.
CNIB SmartLife and Mobile Hub Co-ordinator Thomas Murdoch said the event was designed to connect people with resources that can help them live independently and stay connected to their communities.
The Mobile Hub was open to people who are blind, partially sighted or deafblind, as well as family members, friends and caregivers. Attendees did not need to be existing CNIB participants.
Murdoch said bringing services to smaller communities is important because rural residents can face challenges accessing resources.
“We want to make sure that we reach people where they are instead of having them drive an hour to Regina,” Murdoch said.
Lunch and coffee were provided, and CNIB SmartLife products were showcased and available to order without shipping fees.
The CNIB Mobile Hub was also scheduled to visit the Yorkton Public Library on Sept. 3, with additional visits planned for communities across Saskatchewan later this fall.
