Featured on Now 14 | Israel's news channel.
We are in an incredibly complex situation, filled with anxiety. The stress during rocket attacks is overwhelming for everyone—children and adults alike. For individuals with special needs, the challenges are even more complicated. How can we navigate such a situation on top of the daily struggles they already face?
A representative from the blind community shared their perspective:
"Good morning, and thank you for addressing these critical social issues. It’s essential because, even on the home front, we are dealing with significant difficulties. For people with special needs—particularly the blind and visually impaired—routine is vital. Their lives rely heavily on familiar schedules, known routes, and memorized practices. But emergencies disrupt this routine, forcing a completely different way of functioning, which makes the situation especially challenging.
The sudden urgency to reach a safe space within a short timeframe can be incredibly stressful for our community. Imagine living in a country already traumatized by ongoing conflict, but now consider experiencing it without sight. It amplifies the anxiety exponentially. Our goal is to help alleviate that anxiety by finding some semblance of routine amidst chaos and creating a sense of calm in an otherwise turbulent situation."
Finding Solutions Through Community Support
To address these challenges, the Jerusalem-based Center for the Blind acted quickly after the crisis began. "On October 8th, we realized immediate action was needed because state systems were not providing solutions in the chaotic aftermath," said the representative.
The center opened its doors to blind individuals and their families from across the country, providing a space for respite. Families are invited to Jerusalem to spend time in a supportive environment, connect with others, and access resources. Services include meetings with social workers and psychologists, gym and swimming facilities, and activities aimed at easing anxiety—all provided free of charge.
The representative emphasized the importance of these efforts:
"This is a place where people can be together, find comfort, and feel supported during an incredibly stressful time."
Promoting Accessibility and Resilience
The National Library for the Blind has also been instrumental in providing resources. "Our library plays a vital role in making culture accessible to the blind and visually impaired. We provide books in audio format, Braille, and large print. During this period, we've seen an increased demand for children's books, as families displaced by the crisis seek comfort and normalcy."
One poignant example came from a family who fled southern Israel and relocated temporarily to Belgium. They wrote to the library, saying:
"Dear friends, we fled the Gaza border during that horrific Saturday. Our family and friends in Nahal Oz endured hell. Now in Belgium, we are trying to recover, and your audiobooks have been a lifeline for us."
The increased demand for services highlights the need for cultural accessibility, even in times of crisis. "We’ve shifted resources to focus on making more children's books available, as they have become a vital tool for helping families cope."
Messages of Encouragement
The representative concluded with three key messages:
To the blind and visually impaired community:
You are not alone. Reach out to the Center for the Blind for comprehensive support, entirely free of charge.
To the wider public:
This is a time for unity. Volunteer and help create an inclusive, enlightened society by supporting the blind community.
To corporations and businesses:
Now is the time to contribute. Your support can make a significant difference in helping the blind community through this crisis.
The Center for the Blind has also launched an app that allows users to read or listen to the Book of Psalms. "During these difficult times, this app has become highly sought after," the representative noted.
In closing, they added:
"This is a time for solidarity and action. Together, we can overcome these challenges and build a stronger, more inclusive society."
