Rhode Island Program Information
What are the eligibility requirements?
Rhode Islanders of all ages with an acuity of 20/60 or less in the better eye (with correction) or fields of twenty degrees or less in the better eye are eligible for services.
What is the process for applying for services?
Rhode Island Services for the Blind & Visually Impaired (RISBVI) serves all localities statewide: Anyone can refer or apply by contacting our intake team or by email. We also accept faxed referrals. The process is individualized- staff will contact and speak directly with the individual, referring party or representative.
What documentation is required?
Documentation of vision impairment – by an eye care provider, optometrist, ophthalmologist, or the results of a low vision evaluation. Information should include diagnosis, eye exam, most recent best corrected acuity, visual fields, other conditions. We can assist with obtaining documentation to determine eligibility if necessary. Documentation must also include appropriate contact information: Name, Address, Telephone, Email, Preferred language or media.
Available services:
Our Social Services include evaluation and training and are available to those deemed eligible from age 3 through adulthood. Individual Programs include Social Services for children- educational coordination and advocacy, Independent Living for adults age 18 and up- including older(elderly) blind and we also have a Vocational Rehabilitation Unit for individuals seeking assistance with employment and education.
- Through the independent living program (Social Services and ILOB)- Various Low-Vision aids can be provided to all eligible individuals. Most services and tools are provided without regard to financial need.
- Services may also include;
- -information, referral to community resources and support to individuals and their families
- -Orientation & Mobility training/ white canes
- Rehabilitation Teaching/ Assistive technology and low vision aids- training at no cost and acquisition(* subject to economic guidelines), training on iOS and Android, Braille and Computers.
- Assistance obtaining communication aids, hearing aids, eye glasses, corrective lenses- (*subject to economic guidelines).
- Certification of Legal Blindness to obtain various property tax exemptions ( city/town) and income tax deductions (LB) or various reduced cost benefits.
- Parking Placard Applications and RIDE/RIPTA reduced fare applications.
- Talking Books; Newsline registrations
- Technical Assistance and in- service training for care givers, community providers, nursing facilities, group homes, senior centers and so on.
Program contact information:
RI Services for the Blind & Visually Impaired
- Address: RI Services for the Blind & Visually Impaired
40 Fountain Street, Providence, RI 02903 - Phone: 401-462-7908 (Referrals & Intakes)
- Fax: 401-222-1328 (Fax Referrals to: Attn SBVI INTAKE)
- Main Phone: 401-222-2300
- Email: ors.sbviinfo@ors.ri.gov
- Services for the Blind & Visually Impaired
- Older Blind Independent Living Program