A Lighthouse optician matches the client to the proper magnification resource. It may include a magnifier that is hand-held, lighted, free standing, etc. It could include halogen lighting, sunshades or closed circuit television. The optician trains the client in the proper use of his/her remaining vision. Large print, talking and low vision aids and appliances are available.

Please call the office for details.

This program provides individualized training for visually impaired children ages birth to five years. It helps them to prepare for entering the public school system. It also helps parents with development techniques. A lending library of toys and materials is available. It is free to clients.

Services are available to teach the visually impaired how to use the Internet. They can learn basic, intermediate and advanced computer skills. Students will learn how to e-mail family and friends. They can learn skills that will enable them to return to work or maintain their current employment.

Types of Software Taught:

• JAWS (Job Access with Speech) Screen Reader
• MAGic Screen Magnifier
• ZoomText Screen Magnifier

Support Groups, Drop-Ins, and Book Clubs for the Visually Impaired and Blind.

Please call the office for times.

This program teaches independence in all activities of daily living. It includes help with coping and adjustment to vision loss. Skills taught include cooking, home care and safe movement skills. Transportation is provided.

Please call the office for all services.

The mission of The Compassionate Friends is to help families toward the positive resolution of grief following the death of a child. It aims to provide information to help others be supportive.

Please call first to confirm times.

Hours of operation: Every third Wednesday; doors open at 7:00pm, meeting begins at 7:30pm

Chapters Health System offers individual and group support programs for persons affected by different stages of grief. There are special children's programs. They include individual and group counseling. Age-appropriate camping weekends. Programs are free and open to anyone even if the loss. Contact the bereavement department.

East Pasco County:
37445 Clinton Avenue
Dade City FL 33525
352.518.1400

The goal of this program is to reduce the stress a child has during a hospital stay. Specially trained Child Life Specialists work to help the child learn coping skills. They use play therapy to help the child understand and cope with their upcoming medical procedures. They assist the siblings of a child who has died and help them to understand and say good-bye. The team also works with families and help parents to cope with the challenges of parenting a sick child.

GRH offers services to help those cope with the loss of a loved one. They offer support groups that meet weekly in several locations. Counselors offer guidance and support with individual and family counseling. Mending Hearts is a program for children and teens. The Telephone Assurance Program (TAP) offers additional support by phone.

Gulfside holds Community Memorial Services twice a year, in the Spring and Fall. It offers family members a chance to remember loved ones. They are open to all who have experienced a loss.