Here is a list of resources for blind and visually impaired individuals particular to San Luis Obispo county. For a list of blindness related resources available anywhere in the United States check out my page of “Free national Resources for the Blind and Visually Impaired.”
California Office of Services to the Blind
From their website: “Under the Office of Special Services, the Office of Services to the Blind (OSB) provides information and referral on services, programs, entitlements, and products of benefit to individuals who are blind or low vision and their families or service providers. OSB staff assists such individuals in understanding the availability of services, their eligibility for services, and the purpose and scope of the various service programs.”
Blind Services has put together an extensive handbook of resources for the blind: Handbook of Resources and Services For Visually Impaired
Social Services
They should help you obtain Medi-Cal benefits, Social Security benefits, and In Home Supportive Services.
In Home Support Services
This is a program under Social Services that can help you get and pay for in home care such as food prep, personal care, house cleaning, laundry, and so on.
Department of Rehabilitation
“The goal of Blind Field Services is to increase employment outcomes and enhance the independence and self-sufficiency for consumers in California who are blind and visually impaired through a team of counselors and supervisors who understand the barriers faced in achieving meaningful employment and independent living.”
Runabout Paratransit – San Luis Obispo Regional Transit Authority
This is a bus service that you can call at least two business days in advance to schedule a ride within the county. They will pick you up at your home and help you get to the door of your destination. Fares run anywhere from $2.50 to $4.75 or more.
VTC Enterprises- Independent Living Services
May be able to direct you to get help with obtaining Social Security benefits, training for independent living skills, mobility training, job development, and more. They work with Department of Rehab, Central Coast Assistive Technology, and the Braille Institute.
Braille Institute Santa Barbara
Offers Consultations in kitchen confidence, using technology, and orientation and mobility. They have classes through out California and also will have times for out reach to other cities.
Independent Living Resource Center
Offers assistance attaining accessible and affordable housing, help with personal care through In Home Supportive Service, find accessible technology, and more.
Central Coast Assistive Technology
Helps individuals find assistive technology such as computers, screen reading software, canes, and more. Also they provide training and have a technology lending program.
Deaf & Disabled Telecommunications Program
Offers accessible phone technology like phones with large, tactile buttons that are easier for ones with low vision or blind to use. The phones are offered as a long-term loan.
GO See Foundation
The Central Coast has so many wonderful activities such as kayaking, biking, hiking, and more. The Go See Foundation empowers ones with vision loss to get out and enjoy them all! From the Go See Foundation’s website: “Our mission is to encourage, inspire and empower those going through vision loss to remain active and engaged with their world.”