Tuesday, May 12, 2020

SOCIAL DISTANCE: HOW WILL THEY COPE?

Defend the weak and the fatherless;
  uphold the cause of the poor and the oppressed.
“The ‘gods’ know nothing, they understand nothing.
    They walk about in darkness;
    all the foundations of the earth are shaken.”
—Psalm 82:3, 5

For many of our patrons, social distance is not a recent experience. Many have been dealing with it for years. Routines to stay connected—like visiting friends, going to the library, or attending church—have always been a challenge.But now with drastic changes meant to stop the spread of disease, everything is harder. Transportation, which is always tough, is even more difficult for those who must access health care or testing. Because the causes of blindness include serious health conditions like diabetes, those with visual impairment are sometimes at greater risk of contracting and succumbing to new infections.
For them, the benefits of online technology are limited. Grocery shopping has always been tough, but without help, online buying is now a maze. Children are affected too. Visually impaired kids can’t easily take advantage of the “online learning” proposed by our public schools.

TBL is one of the few organizations dedicated to our brothers and sisters who are often left out by our communities and churches. Let’s not forget them again.
TBL has been there, helping to bridge the distance for those with visual challenges. It is in times of such isolation and loneliness that our friends say, “Thank God for the books!”

In the past year, we have been getting the Word out in different ways. We have introduced our ministry to more churches. We started narrating audio versions of magazines, and have released more audio books about Christians bringing hope to those who are weak and oppressed (Psalm 82), such as Bent Hope and Hope for the Hopeless.

Our board has also felt the burden to call upon more Christians to minister directly to people who face visual impairment and print disability.

We want to send more people into the field to be a light to them. Will you help us?
In this season of remembering the sacrifice of our Lord and Saviour, let us remind ourselves what a privilege it is to help others stay connected to the Source of Life.

Humbly yours,
Peter Van Velzen
Chair, Board of Directors

TBL is committed to building bridges for you and all our patrons, donors, and volunteers. E-mail us at info@talkingbooklibrary.org and share your concerns or stories with us.Tell us how the board can pray for your concerns at this time!
How have you found fellowship and inspiration during this time of isolation?
Do you or someone you love face visual impairment or print disability? Please provide your name and contact information so we can learn more about your needs.
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P.O. Box 700, STN Main, Stouffville, ON L4A 7Z9
905-640-8825

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