[NFBMDTLC-Chapter] Action Needed on Funding for Older Individuals Who Are Blind Program

[Gary Herwig]

Done

________________________________
From: NFBMDTLC-Chapter <nfbmdtlc-chapter-bounces at nfbnet.org> on behalf of Sharon Maneki via NFBMDTLC-Chapter <nfbmdtlc-chapter at nfbnet.org>
Sent: Monday, May 11, 2026 09:49 AM
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Cc: Sharon Maneki <nfbmdsm at gmail.com>
Subject: [NFBMDTLC-Chapter] Action Needed on Funding for Older Individuals Who Are Blind Program

Hello all,
We need your help for funding of the OIB program.



  *   Read the full legislative alert for further details.<https://nfb.org/civicrm/mailing/url?u=43022&qid=12580213>
  *   Call or email your representative and two senators, Van Hollen and Alsobrooks.
  *   If you email your representative and two senators, copy Jesse Shirek at jshirek at nfb.org<https://nfb.org/civicrm/mailing/url?u=43023&qid=12580213>

Read Jesse Shirek's information below for further information.

The National Federation of the Blind, the transformative membership and advocacy organization of blind Americans, urges the members of the House of Representatives and the Senate to vote to increase funding for the Independent Living Services for Older Individuals Who Are Blind (OIB) program.

The OIB program is intended to provide support services for blind Americans over the age of 55 to reach their independent living goals. Critical aspects of OIB include orientation and mobility training, learning Braille, cooking, and training on access technology.

Sample Script

"My name is [YOUR NAME] and I want to urge [REPRESENTATIVE/SENATOR NAME] to support the Independent Living Services for Older Individuals Who Are Blind program by contacting Subcommittee Chair [ADERHOLT (in the House)/CAPITO (in the Senate)] to show support for an increase in funding.

This program helps blind Americans over the age of 55 learn to live with their blindness through various forms of independent living training. The program is currently severely underfunded, allotting less than $10 per eligible individual per year."

We suggest a subject like: "Help us increase independence for blind Americans in their golden years."

Sharon Maneki, Director of Legislation and Advocacy
National Federation of the Blind of Maryland
410-715-9596

The National Federation of the Blind of Maryland knows that blindness is not the characteristic that defines you or your future. Everyday we raise the expectations of blind people, because low expectations create obstacles between blind people and our dreams. You can live the life you want; blindness is not what holds you back.

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