Empowering Through Support with Vocational Rehabilitation Services for the Blind and Visually Impaired

Workforce Solutions East Texas • January 12, 2024

Amidst the challenges of returning to the workforce, specific populations require focused assistance. Throughout January, as we observe National Glaucoma Awareness Month and celebrate World Braille Day, we spotlight our Blind and Visual Impairment (BVI) Team.


Operating within East Texas Vocational Rehabilitation Offices, our BVI Team comprises of dedicated professionals, including Orientation and Mobility Specialists, Vocational Rehabilitation Teachers, and Vocational Rehabilitation Counselors. These experts cater to the needs of the blind and visually impaired, offering guidance on independent living, assistive technology, and orientation in unfamiliar environments.


Teachers play a pivotal role in facilitating independent living by introducing individuals to assistive software and technology designed for blind and low vision. Orientation and Mobility Specialists impart skills like white cane usage, navigating public transportation, and maneuvering through unfamiliar buildings. Vocational Rehabilitation Counselors then assist in aligning individuals with suitable employment, considering their skills, goals, and adaptive technology requirements.


For certain eye conditions, medical or surgical intervention may be necessary to preserve vision. Additionally, Vocational Rehabilitation Services offers Diabetes education classes for those living with Diabetic Retinopathy on a case-by-case basis.


Beyond East Texas, the Criss Cole Rehabilitation Center in Austin stands as a residential facility supporting individuals adapting to legal blindness. The center provides comprehensive assistance, equipping individuals with the skills needed for independent living and confidently navigating unfamiliar territories. Despite the extended stay, the experience at Criss Cole ensures that legally blind individuals have the tools required to participate fully in life.


As we navigate the complexities together, our Vocational Rehabilitation Team is here to help. If you or someone you know requires support, reach out to us – because independence is within reach with the right assistance. For more information, visit www.easttexasworkforce.org/vocational-rehabilitation-services.

Veterans and Job Seekers Connect at Hiring Red, White & You! Job Fair in Longview

By Workforce Solutions East Texas • November 7, 2025
On Wednesday, November 5, Workforce Solutions East Texas hosted the region’s largest hiring event of the year at the Maude Cobb Convention Center in Longview, as part of the Texas Workforce Commission’s 14th annual Hiring Red, White & You! statewide initiative. The event honored veterans with an opening ceremony at 9:30 a.m., followed by a job fair from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. open to the public. About 70 employers participated, offering opportunities for veterans, transitioning service members, military spouses, and other job seekers. “East Texas is blessed to have so many vets to call our neighbors,” said Doug Shryock, Lt. Col. USAF (Ret.), Executive Director of Workforce Solutions East Texas. “Knowledge, skills, and abilities—hard-won across the country and around the world—make our communities stronger and more vibrant. Our employers need these valuable resources.” This year’s event was part of a statewide effort to support veterans in their transition to civilian careers. Since its launch in 2012, Hiring Red, White & You! has connected over 153,000 job seekers, including 52,000 veterans, with more than 26,000 employers across Texas. A representative from a participating employer, Stone Bridge Personnel Services, shared, " The Veteran Job Fair in Longview was a huge success! Sooo many people came out that we barely got a break the entire time! The best part was getting to know the personal stories of several decorated veterans and hearing their accomplishments and what they stand for. That's the spice of life right there. And we're about to fill heaps of new positions using all this new talent! Good times ahead." “ It’s important that we continue to serve those who served, and do so with priority, resources, and commitment,” said TWC Chairman Joe Esparza. “Hiring Red, White & You! events make a difference in the lives of veterans across Texas.” Event Highlights: Total job seekers served:438 Employers represented: 69 Workforce Solutions East Texas and ETCOG thank all participants, employers, and partners who made this event a success. Together, we continue to build a stronger workforce and honor the contributions of our veterans.

Hiring Red, White & You! Statewide Veterans Job Fair Scheduled for November 5 in Longview

October 27, 2025
Wednesday, November 5 | 10 AM - 1 PM | Maude Cobb Convention Center

SNAP Benefits / Government Shutdown FAQ Guide from Texas Health & Human Services

By Texas Health & Human Services • October 24, 2025
SNAP Benefits are not handled by Workforce Solutions East Texas offices. Our staff members cannot assist with your inquiries regarding the Federal Government Shutdown's effect on your benefits. To aid in these concerns, we are sharing information below from Texas Health and Human Services .  2025 Federal Government Shutdown With the federal government shut down, the Texas Health and Human Services Commission is monitoring how it may impact your benefits. Check this page for updates . SNAP SNAP benefits for November won’t be issued if the federal government shutdown continues past Oct. 27. WIC WIC benefits are not affected currently. TANF TANF benefits are not affected currently. Medicaid Medicaid is not affected currently. CHIP CHIP is not affected currently. Find answers about SNAP and other benefits in the Federal Government Shutdown FAQ (PDF) .
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