General Information

Rhode Island Department of Human Services: Services for the Blind and Visually Impaired
40 Fountain Street
Providence, RI 02903-1898
(401) 277 2382
http://www.ors.ri.gov/SBVI.html

Brief Description

The purpose of Services for the Blind and Visually Impaired is to provide eligible individuals with visual impairments the opportunities and support that will enable them to become independent, active, self-sustaining members of their communities.

Services Offered

• Counseling
• Offers individual, family/parent, group counseling, casework evaluation, psychological testing, placement in training or institution, referral to community services, educational placements, vocational assessment and counseling.


• Employment/Job Training
• Provides pre-vocational evaluation, career and skill counseling, job retention, vocational placement, follow-up service, vending stand training.


• Professional Training
• Offers internship/fieldwork placement in rehabilitation counseling, social work, vocational rehabilitation.


• Daily Living Skills/Independent Living Skills Training
• Provides training in personal management, handwriting, typing, home management, remedial education, and sensory training in client's home and community. Oversees Older Blind Independent Living Program.


• Assessment
• Provides evaluation and assessment for vocational training and placement.


• Computer Training/Assistive Technology
• Offers computer training.


• Information and Referral
• Information and referral services provided.


• Travel/Orientation and Mobility
• Provides orientation and mobility training.


• Braille and Reading Instruction
• Offers braille instruction.


• Health
• Contracts for medical diagnoses, physical restoration and treatment.