Our VISION

The visually impaired are among the most underserved segments of the population. According to Health.NYC.gov, there are over 3.5 million visually impaired people in the five boroughs. This number will continue to grow. The number of blind and legally blind will also increase.

The 145 th Street Alliance advocates for pedestrian safety and economic access for the visually impaired.

We also advocate for access to services such as affordable safe housing and on-line services. This advocacy may take the form of educating government, community and businesses on the needs of the visually impaired. We will work collaboratively with groups, agencies, organizations and individuals who believe as we do, that the visually impaired should have equal access.

The goals of our 20/20 vision project are to:

 Collect research and data pertaining to the prevalence, causes and difficulties related to visual impairments. (September 2020)

Phase 1 of the 20/20 vision project is now in progress. In a collaborative effort with CCNY, research was collected, and white papers written related to the topic of visual impairment. The topics include:

A: Glaucoma Education

B: WalkSafe 20/20

C: Diabetes and Visual Impairment

D: Visual Impairment in NYC Schoolchildren

We are grateful to CCNY and its participation in this project. A very special thank you to Professor Pam Stemberg and her amazing students for their incredible work.

 Garner community support for the 20/20 vision project (evidence-based research and practices)

(June 2021)

Meeting with community stakeholders, agencies and organizations as well as other groups who advocate for the visually impaired.

Using social media to share information and connect with stakeholders and potential community partners.

 Use participatory advocacy to organize stakeholders, elected officials in discussion with one of the most pressing needs for the visually impaired: truly affordable housing (February 2021)

Along with community partners and stakeholders, meeting with governmental agencies responsible for funding supportive housing geared towards specific segments of the population.

 Work in partnership with governmental agencies, community partners and stakeholders to develop a housing plan specifically designed for the visually impaired.