In Ybor City, the Lions World Vision Institute organized a heartfelt holiday celebration for visually impaired children from Hillsborough County schools, aiming to bring the magic of Christmas to those who might experience it differently.
The event, held on December 18th, was designed to be inclusive and joyful, allowing children with visual impairments to participate in traditional holiday activities. The Lions World Vision Institute, a local nonprofit, has been collaborating with the Hillsborough County school system for nearly 30 years, focusing on the unique needs of visually impaired students.
Sharon Boyes, the Executive Director of LWVI, emphasized the importance of such events by stating, “Christmas is such a visual holiday. We want to give children who have that visual impairment that feeling and that joy of Christmas.” The institute aimed to offer an experience filled with sensory-rich activities, helping children engage with the festivities regardless of their visual limitations.
During the celebration, children engaged in creating crafts, enjoying live music, and interacting with Santa Claus, fostering a sense of belonging and excitement. The significance of these activities was highlighted by attendees like Janice Bryan, whose great-grandson Elijah suffers from Alstrom syndrome, a condition impacting both his sight and hearing. She noted the value in offering Elijah the chance to mingle with peers facing similar challenges, providing a vital social outlet.
Iishia Godwin, mother of 11-year-old Brian Harrell, shared her perspective on the event. Brian, having been born prematurely, has faced ongoing vision issues. Godwin remarked on how such events allow children like Brian to feel integrated and ‘normal,’ adding to their overall well-being and happiness.
The culmination of the day saw children receiving tailor-made gifts selected from their wish lists, funded by the generous efforts of the LWVI staff. This act of kindness reflects the institute’s broader mission to support children with visual impairments through research and medical interventions, including corneal transplants.
Boyes articulated the profound impact of the event, sharing, “Our whole mission is tied to serving children like this… to be able to see the joy on those children’s faces is really what this is all about.” Her statement underscores the warmth and dedication present at the holiday gathering, aiming to create lasting happy memories for the participants.
The Lions World Vision Institute’s holiday party for visually impaired children not only offered festive cheer but also fostered a vital sense of community and joy. By prioritizing inclusivity and sensory engagement, the event succeeded in making the holiday season special for these children, thereby fulfilling its mission of bringing joy and support to those in need.
Source: Fox13news
