Living with vision loss can make daily life more challenging. But you don’t have to handle it alone. There are many organizations and support services available to you in Missouri. This guide covers some essential services for the blind available in your state.
Missouri Rehabilitation Services for the Blind
The Missouri Rehabilitation Services for the Blind is a state agency that helps blind residents gain skills for independence. They provide career counseling, assistive technology assessments, orientation and placement, mobility training, and more. Their staff can personalize a plan tailored to your specific situation and goals.
Missouri School for the Blind
The Missouri School for the Blind is a specialized public school serving visually impaired students from birth through age 21. In addition to education adapted for vision issues, they offer outreach and referral services and support for students’ families. Their teachers have specialized training to promote success for blind youth.
Delta Gamma Center for Children with Visual Impairments
For parents of babies or young children who have vision loss, there is the Delta Gamma Center for Children with Visual Impairments. This nonprofit aims to support the development of blind kids in their critical early years. They offer personalized therapies and teaching approaches suited to each child’s individual needs.
Saint Louis Society for the Blind and Visually Impaired
Adults seeking to gain more independence can look into the Saint Louis Society for the Blind and Visually Impaired. This private nonprofit provides services like independent living skills training and low vision clinics. They also offer accessible technology and tools to better manage daily tasks.
Missouri Council of the Blind
The Missouri Council of the Blind is an organization that advocates for the rights of the blind community on local and national levels. They also provide financial assistance through grants that cover technology, education, and healthcare costs. Check their website to find local chapters for peer support.
Federal Assistance Programs – SSI and SSDI
Visually impaired persons may qualify for federal disability benefits through the Social Security Administration. Two main programs provide financial assistance for disabilities:
- SSI (Supplemental Security Income) – Provides monthly payments to blind adults and children with limited income and resources. You can qualify based on visual acuity, visual field loss, or lack of eye muscle control.
- SSDI (Social Security Disability Insurance) – Pays benefits to blind adults who have worked and paid Social Security taxes for a certain period of time before losing vision.
These programs can offer crucial financial support if you are unable to work full-time due to vision disability. Benefits may help cover costs like healthcare, further training, transportation, food, and housing.
Eligibility and payment amounts depend on your work history and current income/assets. But it’s worth exploring whether you qualify and applying if so. This supplemental aid program can significantly improve quality of life.
Additional Benefits Through SSI
If you receive federal disability benefits like SSI for your visual impairment, you likely qualify for FREE wireless service from Easy Wireless.
We offer unlimited calling, texting, and data at no cost through the government Lifeline and ACP programs.
Qualified individuals are also eligible for a FREE smartphone. A free smartphone and wireless service can help you better access blind services, facilities, resources, and support groups across Missouri.
Enrolling for FREE Service Takes Only a Few Minutes
Our online application has been designed to address the needs of the sight loss community to aid you in completing your application.
Enter your email and zip code in the box below and click the ‘Enroll Now” button to get started.
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Key Takeaway – There is Support Available
You don’t have to struggle alone. Reach out to one of these organizations for personalized assistance tailored to your unique health needs. And don’t hesitate to share this information with others who could benefit.
