Massage Training programme
The variety of vocational skills imparted to the trainees is being expanded - we have recently commenced a new course 'Foot & Chair Massage' for the trainees. This enhances their employment opportunities after completing the training at our institution.
All-India Advanced Training Centre In Computers - (2008)
In order to groom educated visually challenged persons who have basic
knowledge of computers, Tata Consultancy Services in collaboration
with the Home started the All India MNB-TCS Advanced Training Centre.
This is the first recognized MS-CIT centre in Mumbai. Over time the
visually-challenged persons have benefited from this training and
gained employment opportunities in various Corporates, Banks and business
houses.
In addition to the above, the residents of MNB receive medical
treatment for low vision from a qualified optometrist who
makes regular visits. There are also recreational facilities
on campus, with facilities for musical instruments, chess, carrom,
home gymnasium etc.
Computer Centre - (2006)
MNB started a Computer Centre that offers courses in Basic computers
and Maharashtra State Certificate in Information Technology (MS-CIT)
for any Visually Challenged person. MNB is the first recognized MS-CIT
Centre in Mumbai exclusively for the visually challenged persons.
With the help of JAWS, a screen reader software, students are taught
MS office applications like Word, Excel, Power point, and Internet.
Self Employment Schemes - (2006)
For those who are not capable of being employed, but possess the acumen
to run their own businesses, the home now has 2 Self-Employment Schemes
(Mini & Maxi) that are operational in various districts of Maharashtra.
Under the Maxi Scheme, (which at present is exclusively
for the ex-trainees) assistance is provided in the form of equipment
such as household flour mill, candle making and envelope making unit,
grocery/cutlery store, stationery shop, hiring of cycle, music system,
tea-vending machines etc, to trainees who want to start their own
trade or business. No cash is given for this, only in-kind assistance
is provided.
The Mini Scheme helps visually challenged hawkers
and small traders run their businesses at railway stations, in offices
or from home. All the beneficiaries are provided aid only 'in kind'
which include items of daily use (such as stationery items, cut-piece,
sari falls etc.) that they can sell for their business.
The Hostel - (2001)
Many visually challenged men from the villages find it difficult to
find employment in their hometowns. Therefore, the home constructed
a highly subsidised hostel for working or self - employed blind men
who came from all over the country to work in Mumbai but could not
afford accommodation. The hostel provides temporary accommodation
for a period of first three years to help a visually impaired person.
Vocational Training For Blind Men - (1956)
The first initiative of this institution, it was targeted at men between
the ages of 18 and 45 years. The Weaving and Handloom Section helps
them produce quality floor swabs and other fabrics for household articles.
There is also a tailoring section and a section that makes clothes
hangers, paper plates, candles and cane furniture.
We provide pocket money to those who wish to sharpen their skills
and stipend to all trainees during the training period.