3.3.1 While Haiti is yet to recover fully from the devastation wrought by last year’s storms and hurricanes, measures need to be implemented to cope with any possible storms of the 2009 Hurricane Season, which commenced on June 1st. Meanwhile, SHAA has continued to implement its programs, despite severe financial and other constraints.
3.3.2 The recent appointment of former US President Bill Clinton as the UN’s Goodwill Ambassador for Haiti, appears to have fuelled great expectations. It would be of immense benefit to the people of Haiti, if he can use his offices and contacts to leverage funding for various developmental programs.
3.4 Jamaica:
· Mandeville Regional Hospital (MRH) – Development of Vision Center: The design for Vision Center has been completed, and it is anticipated that refurbishment of the space will commence once EU funding becomes available.
· The Tracer and Digital Edger which were purchased with the assistance of ICEE for the Vision Center (MRH) have arrived in Jamaica and have been cleared; however, the Program is still awaiting the delivery of frames and lenses. Meanwhile, the Trainee Refractionist, as part of her Practicum, has begun to see patients and prescribe glasses, under supervision. In the interim, an emergency supply of lenses and frames is being procured and the services of a Private Lab contracted to fabricate the spectacles, until refurbishment of the Center is completed.
· District Hospitals in: Black River; May Pen; and Christiana, have been visited by the Executive Director of CCB, with a view to the possible establishment of Vision Centers at each location. That will bring the number of Vision Centers in the Southern Region of Jamaica to four (4).
3.5 St. Lucia:
3.5.1 In observance of Blindness Awareness Month 2009, St. Lucia Blind Welfare Association (SLBWA) hosted several activities, which received extensive media coverage, including:
· Low Vision Sensitisation Session at JQ Mall, which included display of LV Aids and Vision Assessment Kit, and Vision Screening;
· Assembly for persons living with blindness and low vision, involving – clients, parents, students and service providers;
· Walk for Sight
· SLBWA Staff Retreat;
· Sunset Cruise Fundraiser.
3.5.2 Additionally, SLBWA has extended the Reception Area of its Clinic, enhancing aesthetics and client comfort; and, has replenished its stock of frames and lenses, to give clients a greater variety and choice.
3.6 The Commonwealth of the Bahamas:
3.6.1 The Bahamas Alliance for the Visually Impaired (BABVI) has elected a twelve-member Executive, including four women, to manage its affairs for the period 2009 – 2011; Desmond Browne has been returned as President.