The College of Orientation and Mobility trains practitioners who help to provide adaptive skills to visually impaired people in urban and rural areas, where guide dogs are unable to be placed. It is estimated that each qualified Orientation and Mobility Practitioner can reach approximately 40 people, who are blind and partially sighted, each year of their working life. A practitioner who works for 20 years, can reach and train up to 800 people who are visually impaired and in so doing empower them with the skills to lead safe and independent lives.

Stats SA estimated, in 2014, that there are approximately 400 000 South Africans who could be categorised as blind and an additional 1 000 000 individuals who could be considered partially sighted, the majority of whom reside outside of major urban centres.

Eye Focus Africa event organisers, Rayalson, and the South African Optometric Association (SAOA) are hoping to raise awareness of the plight of blind and partially sighted people and are calling upon all businesses and professionals within the eye care industry to assist through financial and material donations.

Materials donations needed for Orientation and Mobility Practitioners include: Eye model with orbit and eyelid (six times life size), Ear model (three times life size), Magnifiers (lite Optic), Hand magnifiers, torches, Snellen charts, Anglepoise and fluorescent lamps, any books regarding visual impairment, laptop backpacks, warm jackets, waterproof raincoats, walking shoes and hats with brims.

For more information, visit www.eyefocusafrica.com. Alternatively connect with them on Facebook or on Twitter.