Milwaukee VA to host White Cane Safety Day event

To mark White Cane Safety Day, specialists from the Milwaukee VA’s Blind Rehabilitation program will join with county transportation experts to explain bus routes, bus safety features and other accessibility programs for those with low or no vision.

A Milwaukee County Transit System bus will be parked at the Milwaukee VA Medical Center’s South Entrance, 5000 W. National Ave., so participants can have real-life experience using the bus.

In addition, there will be information about the White Cane Law, which spells out actions drivers must take when they encounter a pedestrian with a white cane.

“We acknowledge White Cane Safety Day every year to bring awareness to the community about the White Cane Law,” said Arneetrice Ellerman, blind rehabilitation specialist for the Milwaukee VA. “It provides us with an opportunity to share information to pedestrians as well as drivers about their responsibility when they see someone with a red/white cane.

“This day also helps shine light on the level of isolation vision loss can cause. Our hope is to empower our Veterans with information that can help them with obtaining the skills needed to increase their confidence so they can get out of their home and regain their independence.”

For more information about White Cane Safety Day at the Milwaukee VA, contact Arneetrice Ellerman or Claire Bublitz in the Blind Rehabilitation program at 414-384-2000, ext. 45901 or 41832.

 

NOTE TO MEDIA: You are welcome to cover this event. Experts from Milwaukee County Transit and the Milwaukee VA will be available for interviews. Contact Public Affairs Specialist David Walter at david.walter@va.gov or 414-384-2000, ext. 45176, to make arrangements.

David Walter, Public Affairs Specialist

414-384-2000, ext. 45176