Veasey goes back to work, blindfolded, at Lighthouse for the Blind of Fort Worth

Fort Worth, Texas – As part of his "Marc Means Business" initiative, Congressman Marc Veasey, TX-33, will mark National Disability Employment Month and White Cane Awareness Day, by spending an afternoon working on the assembly line at Lighthouse for the Blind in Fort Worth. The non-profit organization provides training and employment for the blind and visually impaired at its own facilities as well as at private companies.

On Tuesday, October 14, 2014, after a brief training in braille, cane-use, and blindness sensitivity, Rep. Veasey will have the opportunity to work three very different assembly line jobs while wearing impairment goggles or a blindfold to simulate his co-workers normal working conditions. While under safety supervision, Veasey will get a chance to work on a paper assembly line, a paper tube shipping line, and use a band-saw to cut foam paper for shipping.

"I hope that this work day shatters misconceptions about blind and visually impaired citizens and serves as a reminder that Americans with disabilities can pursue goals of employment and independence," Rep. Veasey said. "I will continue to work to ensure people with disabilities and all Americans have full access to the education, information, and job training they need to pursue careers in all fields."

"Lighthouse for the Blind of Fort Worth is pleased to welcome Rep. Marc Veasey onto our production lines during National Disability Employment Month as part of his "Marc Means Business" initiative. We look forward to giving Rep. Veasey an opportunity to extend his experience with blindness and to work alongside individuals who are working hard to earn economic independence, regardless of their eyesight," Platt Allen III, Lighthouse CEO said.

Since March, Rep. Veasey has worked at various jobs within his district. Last month, Veasey spent a day at Oak Cliff's Los Torres Taqueria where he helped with preparing food and serving customers at the Latino family-owned restaurant. The Marc Means Business initiative allows for Veasey to connect with his constituents and learn more about what everyday life is like for these individuals.

What:

U.S. Congressman Marc Veasey, TX-33, works at Lighthouse for the Blind of Fort-Worth

When:

Tuesday, October 14, 2014

12:30 PM – 4:00 PM CDT

Location:

Lighthouse for the Blind of Fort Worth, 912 W. Broadway Ave., Fort Worth, TX 76104

MEDIA RSVP REQUIRED

Members of the media must RSVP by providing their full name as it appears on their government-issued ID, media organization, and title to be placed on the admittance list. Please send this information to Jessica.Coscia@mail.house.govby 5:00 PM, Mon. October 13, 2014.

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