CNIB is excited to announce the launch of its White Cane Access Program, aimed at providing equitable access to white canes for individuals across the country. The program is designed to empower confidence, independence, and autonomy for countless Canadians with sight loss.
For countless Canadians with sight loss, white canes are essential mobility tools, empowering confidence, independence, and autonomy. However, the lack of national funding initiatives has resulted in unequal access to these crucial devices across Canada.
Through the White Cane Access Program, CNIB Connects members can apply for one free white cane and tip per calendar year and aims to help at least 5,000 people access or replace a white cane each year.
Advocating for equitable funding across Canada
CNIB firmly believes that all Canadians with sight loss who would benefit from having a white cane should be able to access them – free of financial barriers.
CNIB’s White Cane Access program was developed to help bridge that financial gap in existing assistive devices programs to ensure equitable access to white canes. However – this is not a sustainable, long-term solution.
CNIB will continue to engage in conversations and advocacy efforts with provincial and federal governments to help establish consistent, equitable funding solutions across the country.
“As a person who uses a white cane myself, I know firsthand just how important white canes are. They are so much more than essential mobility tools. They empower confidence, independence, and autonomy,” says Shoko Kitano, Executive Director, British Columbia and the Yukon. “CNIB's commitment to advocating for equitable access to white canes reflects our dedication to ensuring that all Canadians with who are blind, Deafblind or have low vision can navigate the world with dignity and freedom."
The program is being initially rolled out as a pilot in British Columbia, with plans to extend it to all provinces in the near future.
Eligible CNIB Connects members in British Columbia can contact CNIB toll-free at 1-800-563-2642 or visit their nearest CNIB SmartLife Centre to order their free white cane or tip.
About CNIB Connects
CNIB Connects is an innovative membership program for Canadians who are blind, Deafblind, or have low vision. This exclusive initiative offers members a range of benefits, including discounts on products and services, access to exclusive content and experiences, and increased engagement from leading businesses dedicated to enhancing accessibility for a superior customer experience.
About CNIB
Founded in 1918, CNIB 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 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.
For media inquiries or more information, please contact:
Caitlyn Crews
Manager, Marketing and Communications
CNIB
C: 416-262-5192
E: caitlyn.crews@cnib.ca