The Planning Authority has donated €1,000 to support the work of the Visual Non-Visual Network (VNVN) as part of its Corporate Social Responsibility initiatives, while also purchasing fresh produce from the organisation to benefit Dar tal-Providenza, the Authority said in a statement.
The initiative saw the Authority purchase tomatoes, olive oil and herbs cultivated by VNVN members, which were later presented to Fr Martin Micallef on behalf of Dar tal-Providenza. The effort resulted in a dual contribution, supporting both VNVN's community projects and the ongoing work carried out at Dar tal-Providenza.
The donation followed a meeting between Planning Authority Executive Chairman Johann Buttigieg and VNVN representatives led by founder Noel Farrugia. VNVN is a voluntary organisation dedicated to raising awareness and promoting inclusion for people who are blind or have low vision.
During the meeting, VNVN representatives highlighted several projects aimed at improving accessibility and empowering visually impaired individuals. Among these is the "Meet and Greet Compliments" project, which provides specialised training for employees in the tourism and hospitality sectors.
Through workshops involving direct interaction with VNVN members, workers are taught practical ways to assist guests who are blind or have low vision. Training includes the use of vivid verbal descriptions, tactile maps, room markers and other accessibility tools intended to enhance the visitor experience.
The organisation also outlined its agricultural initiatives, including olive harvesting for olive oil production and the cultivation of tomatoes, herbs and herbal teas. These projects are designed to encourage participation, independence and sustainability within the visually impaired community.
Commenting on the initiative, Buttigieg said the Planning Authority remains committed to supporting organisations that create a positive impact within society.
"This initiative reflects our ongoing efforts to give back to the community while promoting inclusion and accessibility. We look forward to further assisting VNVN in its valuable work," he said.
Buttigieg added that the Planning Authority will also consult with VNVN on its Safe Pedestrian Project, which seeks to establish guidelines ensuring pavements are safe and accessible for everyone, particularly persons with visual impairments.
VNVN reaffirmed its mission to build a more inclusive society in which persons who are blind or visually impaired are empowered to achieve their goals and contribute their talents. The organisation said it remains committed to driving awareness and meaningful change across different sectors through continued collaboration and community engagement.