In September 2018, CNIB formally unveiled Phone It Forward – a program
that gives Canadians a unique opportunity to donate their old smartphones,
receive a tax receipt, and empower people who are blind.
Scott Seiler dreamed of owning a smartphone, but the cost, and lack of
hands-on training, was a barrier.
As someone who had never sent a text message, Scott says he felt
disconnected from the outside world. He longed for something that would
allow him to connect with people without having to rely on memorizing multiple
phone numbers.
Through the CNIB Foundation’s Phone It Forward program, Scott
received a free smartphone and one-on-one user training.
Slightly nervous about learning how to send text messages, he was
shocked at how easy the process is.
“I thought I was going to have to press all kinds of buttons to
type out a message, but I just talked to Siri,” says Scott. “Getting
the smartphone is one piece of the puzzle – having access to training is key.
I’m in my late fifties; I didn’t grow up accustomed to this stuff.”
Now, he’s learning how to use the built-in voiceover technology to help
stay connected with family and friends.
Scott says his smartphone has given him peace of mind. He is continuing
to learn how to use the device and hopes to become proficient.
Visit phoneitforward.ca to donate your smartphone and change the life of someone who is blind.
Click HERE for the full press release.