Assn for the Blind-Jerusalem

The Jerusalem Association for the Blind was started in the fledgling State of Israel with the purpose of helping blind people and their families. Our activities include: Rehabilitation Circle and Support Group in Jerusalem: The circle is open 5 days a week and provides 40 members with an occupation, as well as removing the burden of loneliness. At the circle, blind artists earn an independent income that supplements their support from other sources by creating handicrafts that are sold; all profits go to maintain the circle and its activities. Health: We offer financial aid to people who cannot afford medication, including dental care and hearing aids that are beyond their means even with the discount from the health service. Trips: We organize and subsidize vacations and trips for needy blind people and their families that are appropriate and enjoyable for everyone. Education and Blind Youth: We offer scholarships for institutes of higher education so that blind people can pursue a career. We also subsidize childcare for the children of blind people, so that their parents can study or work, thus encouraging independence. Jewish Holidays: Celebration of Jewish holidays often comes with added financial outlay. So many families are stretched financially by therapy and medical costs. We help them to enjoy and celebrate holidays without worry by gifting supermarket vouchers before the High Holidays and Passover.