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Lighthouse Appeals For Funding Help

By Carl Orth | The Suncoast News

Published: August 23, 2008

PORT RICHEY - More than ever the Lighthouse for the Visually Impaired and Blind must depend on the generosity of individuals after state budget cuts, leaders say.

Call 727-815-0303 to find out how to help or go online at www.lighthouse-pasco.org>.

It would be a thrill if individuals sent $25 checks to the Lighthouse in honor of its 25th anniversary, says Executive Director Sylvia Perez. Even $5 contributions help make a difference, she says.

For instance, the state cut half the funds for the Little Lighthouse program serving 10 infants here with vision problems.

Gasoline prices place a big strain on the budget. "It's killing us," Perez says about the gas mileage of a large van. On top of that, one of the Lighthouse's three minivans was declared a total loss after another vehicle crashed into it.

Events coming soon:

•Auction on Oct. 2.

•White Cane Walk Day Oct. 15.

•Pajama Party for women in November.

•A "surprise event" tentatively is planned for January.

Perez is looking forward to her first Lighthouse Coronation Ball to kick off Chasco Fiesta in March 2009.

Another goal in 2009 is a summer camp for youngsters ages 6 and up with vision problems. Some blind teens might never have been to the mall, gone bowling or visited the beach.

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