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March - July 2020

The dawn of unusual times caused by COVID-19 has made the world re-orient itself to the new demands, and the Blind Relief Association is not an exception to it. With all the additional challenges that the Disability Sector has to encounter, we have been progressing gradually in the 'new normal'.

The JPM School, Durgabai Deshmukh College of Special Education, and Computer Training Center have switched to virtual classes on Zoom, Google Meet, Microsoft Teams, etc. Online livelihood course, soft skills, computers, and relaxation massage classes are conducted for the Vocational Trainees. Few trainees have stayed back in the Association and are involved in the production of facemasks, bags, candles, diyas.

The Association has involved in many COVID relief works and lockdown activities, a glance into which is brought to you by this newsletter.  We thank all the donors and volunteers who have supported us through this time. 

  COVID Outreach

In response to the COVID-19 outbreak in the country, as a responsible non-governmental organization and earnest member of the civil society, the Blind Relief Association decided to go beyond its mandated services to the visually impaired and reach out to the poor, vulnerable, and the homeless people in Delhi NCR. Read More

Remembering Smt. Anusuya Basrurker

A life well lived will always be remembered, celebrated, and honored. Such were the lives of the Founders of the Blind Relief Association - Smt. Anusuya Basrurker and Shri Umesh Anand Basrurker. On 4 June 2020, the death anniversary of Smt. Anusuya Basrurker, a havan was held in the Gandhi Hall in the presence of few staff and trainees.

Thank you Founders, for your noble vision and selfless service.

Celebration of Helen Keller Day 
In a novel initiative, the trainees of Basic Computer & Office Operations organized a virtual celebration of the 140th birth anniversary of Helen Keller. Read More
Birth anniversary of Dr. Durgabai Deshmukh 
The Blind Relief Association is proud of having had an eminent person such as Dr. (Mrs.) Durgabai Deshmukh taking on the Presidentship of the Association from 1964 to 1974 and taking the institution's activities to new and glorious heights. The Association was also fortunate to have Dr. Durgabai's illustrious husband, Dr.C.D.Deshmukh as an Advisor and Life Trustee. In commemorating the birth anniversary of Dr. (Mrs.) Durgabai Deshmukh on 14 July, here is a beautiful article reflecting her life and the impact she has left behind. Read Article
Class X & XII Results
For one another year, the students and trainees of the Blind Relief Association have made us proud. Congratulations and we wish you all a fruitful future! Check Results
Online Livelihood classes for Vocational Trainees
Conducted in partnership with Udhyam Learning Foundation and Youth4Jobs, the online program is aimed to encourage trainees to be self-reliant individuals and set up small-scale businesses in their own towns/ villages. Read More
You will be missed,  Mr. Prasanna Kumar Pincha
We pay our sincere tribute and respect to Mr. Prasanna Kumar Pincha, former Chief Commissioner for Disabilities, Government of India who passed away on 26 July 2020. Read More
List of webinars conducted 

1. Features and Usage of Orbit Reader on 20 May conducted by the IT Dept. of B.R.A.
2. Features and Usage of KIBO Device on 30 May conducted by the IT Dept. of B.R.A.
3. Lockdown Home Workout Techniques for Visually Impaired Athletes on 11 July jointly organised by IBSA & B.R.A
4.  Myths and Misconceptions about Sports Nutrition on 22 July jointly organised by IBSA & B.R.A
5. A month-long online training course on Computer Skills & IT Literacy for Visually Impaired conducted by the IT Dept. of B.R.A began on 23 July.

Media Mentions

1. Reader's Digest - On Its 75th Year, Blind Relief Association Has Its Eye Towards The Future
2. SocioStory - Even without Sight, there is still Vision- Blind Relief Association paves the way in transforming lives of visually impaired people.
3. NDTV - Face masks produced by the Blind Relief Association to fight COVID-19 
4.  YourStory - This Theatre Group is feeding thousands of needy families 
5. The New Indian Express - TFAC Challenge: Perform and raise funds

Videos

1. The Blind Relief Association's response to COVID-19
2. Lend a hand, lend your saree
3. Reusable cotton facemasks made by the trainees of the Association 
4. The Blind Relief Association needs your support today
5. Stay home, Stay safe, Stay helpful, Stay hopeful 

The Blind Relief Association is now registered with GiveIndia.
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