TORONTO, September 19, 2019 – On Wednesday evening, superheroes of all ages gathered in Toronto to serve, protect and fundraise for a local cause – the CNIB Foundation. Community members participated in CNIB Night Steps, a Superhero Walk, to support CNIB Foundation programs in Toronto.
The event also recognized the Ontario Trillium Foundation's (OTF) support of the expansion of peer support and Vision Mate programs in the Greater Toronto Area. Raymond Cho, Minister for Seniors and Accessibility, along Justin Mooney, Chair of OTF’s Toronto Grant Review Team were there to congratulate the CNIB Foundation on the work being done with a $424,000 Grow grant awarded in 2017.
“Congratulations to everyone who helped make this year’s walk such a success,” said Raymond Cho, Minister for Seniors and Accessibility. “Our government shares CNIB’s commitment to supporting people with disabilities find employment and fully participate in the economy and in their communities.”
The OTF grant is being used to help people who are blind or partially sighted develop strong connections in their community by expanding the Vision Mates and peer programs. Funds are being used to help with staffing, training, communications, developing program materials and purchasing equipment, as well as some administrative costs as well.
"This three-year funding by the Ontario Trillium Foundation has allowed us to grow programs to reduce isolation for people with sight loss in Toronto region," said Suzanne Decary-van den Broek, Executive Director, CNIB Foundation Ontario South (GTA).
Funds raised at CNIB Night Steps supports local programs and powerful advocacy that empower people impacted by blindness to live their dreams while tearing down barriers to inclusion.
"From teaching participants how to unleash the power of technology – to making sure children and parents have the best school experience possible, these vital programs are emboldening people who are blind or partially sighted to lead independent, active lives, but we couldn't do it without your support," said Decary-van den Broek. "I'd like to thank everyone who participated; whether you registered for the walk, pledged a participant or sponsored the event, your support is truly making a difference."
The Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF) is an agency of the Government of Ontario, and one of Canada’s leading granting foundations. OTF awarded $108 million to some 629 projects last year to build healthy and vibrant communities in Ontario.
About the CNIB Foundation
Founded in 1918, the CNIB Foundation is a non-profit organization driven to change what it is to be blind today. We deliver innovative programs and powerful advocacy that empower people impacted by blindness to live their dreams and tear down barriers to inclusion. Our work as a blind foundation is powered by a network of volunteers, donors and partners from coast to coast to coast. To learn more or get involved, visit cnib.ca.
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For more information, please contact:
Karin McArthur
Lead, Marketing & Communications
CNIB Foundation Ontario
437-922-7353
Karin.McArthur@cnib.ca