Although both central and state governments have announced welfare schemes and helplines for people to contact during the lockdown, for most people, relief isn’t easy to come by.

Maharashtra being one among the worst hit states by Covid19, Eyeway Helpdesk has received hundreds of calls from visually impaired people from various districts, struggling with daily existence.

Callers from Satara, Ahmednagar, Aurangabad, Washim, Pune, Mumbai, Buldhana, Nanded, Amravati and many other districts have reported problems in securing rations, other essential items and medicines. Not everyone has received the advance disability pension as promised.

Beyond seeking help from local NGOs, Eyeway counselors contacted the State and District Social Welfare Officers to address these issues. Our team was further redirected to District Collectors’ offices. Several verification calls later, Eyeway learnt that callers could seek help at local administration level, from their respective Taluka officials.

Provisions and mechanisms seem to be in place but the last mile user remains unaware of how and where to seek help.

As part of our Covid19 initiative, the Eyeway Helpdesk continues to reach out to persons with disabilities in need of help across states. For sustaining and scaling up the relief work, please donate using the link below.
http://scorefoundation.org.in/get-involved/

We thank you for your constant support.

Team Eyeway