Betty on the phone

The Blind Foundation is New Zealand’s main provider of practical and emotional support for the 12,100 Kiwis who are blind or have low vision, enabling them to face their future with confidence. Blind Foundation staff around the country aim to enable people who are blind or have low vision to be self-reliant and live the life they choose.

Vision loss can be devastating and around one third of people with vision loss experience symptoms of depression. The loss of mobility and independence, challenges with participating in social, recreation and leisure activities and the potential loss of employment can impact their daily lives.

The Trust House Foundation’s generous contribution to the Blind Foundation ensures that people in Flaxmere, Masterton and Rimutaka, receive counselling when and where they need it. Our specialist counsellors understand the issues and concerns of people faced with vision loss. They meet them at a Blind Foundation office or will come and meet them at home or in the community. With this early support, people are able to come to terms with their vision loss and can focus on developing coping/life skills. With the confidence they gain they also receive support to explore which training, equipment and services that will help them live independent and fulfilling lives as valued and contributing members of the local community.