They're blind and some visually impaired, but that isn't standing in the way of some amazing Arkansans. Thanks to the Arkansas Lighthouse for the Blind in Little Rock, they're able to hold down a job and take care of their families.
At first glance it looks like a typical factory, but a closer look reveals many of the workers are blind or have severe vision impairments. "We have a total of 75 employees, 49 are blind or visually impaired," says Bill Johnson.
Take Gustavo Manzanales for example. He's worked at Arkansas Lighthouse for only a few months and appreciates the opportunity given to him. "I had lots of problems finding a job. I applied many places but it was the thing about the blind factor. I guess people are not used to people working who are blind or disabled," says Gustavo.
Founded in 1941, Lighthouse gives vision impaired people a chance to work. But don't think what they're doing is just busy work, they have some important clients like the US Army. They make utility belts and T-shirts.
At first Wendy Ellis says it took her some time to get the hang of the sewing machine. "The very first day I did production I only did 60 shirts and now depending on the size, I can do close to 800 a day," says Ellis.
With big equipment, it can be intimidating for anyone let alone a blind person but the people here have things running like a well oiled machine.
Earl McClure has worked at Lighthouse for 31 years, he's part of the division making steno pads. And although this is very hands on work it's a breeze for him. "Being blind was never an issue for me. I pretty well grew up like a sighted person," says McClure.
With the addition of a new line of T-shirts for the Navy, Lighthouse is looking to provide even more opportunities for the blind. Johnson says they're looking to hire about 12 more employees for the new line.
The Lighthouse has a store with items made by blind employees which is open to the public. You can contact them at 501-562-2222.
