JEDDAH: Visually impaired students attending Ebsar Foundation’s summer program, called “Building Hope,” have called for the provision of Braille at offices and restaurants. They want special facilities to be available at the 36 business establishments and restaurants covered under the program.

Mohammad Towfik Bellow, the foundation’s secretary general and the organization’s driving force, said the students participating in the camp will be visiting the offices and restaurants to familiarize themselves with nutrition and food packaging.

He stressed the need for restaurants to have their menus in Braille so that the visually challenged can read them and identify the nutritional value of different food items with their prices.

The children visited one of the food companies that provide fast-food in Jeddah, where they found initiatives taken and services launched for the disabled so they can look forward to jobs in the food industry as well as at restaurants with Braille services, Bellow said.

He expressed his thanks and appreciation to the company’s management for showing their social responsibility and support for the program, which will continue for a second year.

Ihsan Abu Ghazaleh, president of the board of directors of the fast-food establishment, welcomed the children and gave them appropriate uniforms to wear before they entered the factory. They toured the factory’s various departments like production, packaging, storage and distribution. The importance of safety and security, and sterilization was stressed.

He also explained to the students the establishment’s future plans, including services especially for disabled people.

Participants not only learned about the food service industry and the environment, but also healthy eating habits to avoid chronic health problems. The importance of regular physical exercise and healthy lifestyles was also emphasized.