CARE OF THE BLIND.

Otago Witness, Issue 3613, 12 June 1923, Page 70

CARE OF THE BLIND.

THE EMPLOYMENT PROBLEM. CHRISTCHURCH. June 5. The Commission regarding the care of the blind sat to-day. Messrs Caughley and Olutha Mackenzie were present, Messrs Nolan and Tibbs being absent. Evidence was given by C. A. Bloomfield (blind for 20. years), who said that he had had no training since he lost his sight. His application for training at the Jubilee Institute was declined 20 years ago, without any reasons, except that there was no provision for adults. He believed he could have been admitted if he had paid fees. Tho Jubilee Institute was a private charitable institution. In 1910 ho bought a cottage at Invercargill, and commenced hawking, but was advised to apply to the Charitable Aid Board for help, as it was inadvisable that his seven-year-old daughter should assist him in his work. When he applied he was told that, his home would have to bo sold, and his daughter was committed to an industrial home, as no relief could be granted to anyone possessing property. The blind had difficulty in obtaining employment, even when trained.