Newmarket, Ontario, Canada – June marks National Deafblind Awareness Month (NDBAM), a dedicated time to recognize and celebrate the contributions, resilience, and diversity of individuals who are deafblind. The month also aims to raise awareness about the unique experiences and challenges faced by this community across Canada.
Prevalence of Deafblindness in Canada
According to the 2022 Canadian Survey on Disability conducted by Statistics Canada, more than 2 percent of Canadians aged 15 and older, representing approximately 602,000 people, are deafblind. Among those aged 65 years and older, the figure rises to 314,260 individuals, or 52 percent of the older adult population. These statistics highlight the ongoing need for awareness, accessibility, and inclusive support systems throughout the country.
Community Initiatives and Creative Expression
This June, DeafBlind Ontario Services (DBOS) is proud to participate once again in the #CreateAndConnect global awareness initiative, led by Deafblind International. Through community-based activities and creative expression, the initiative fosters understanding, connection, and inclusion. Across Ontario, DBOS will feature yarn bombing installations in public spaces, transforming everyday locations into vibrant, tactile displays that celebrate connection and community.
Yarn bombing, a form of street art using knitted and crocheted materials, reflects the creativity and individuality of people who are deafblind. These installations also symbolize how communities can come together to build more inclusive and accessible environments.
Voices from the Community
Alec, who is deafblind and resides in a DBOS Supported Living Home, serves as an active advocate for the deafblind community. He emphasizes the importance of awareness: “It’s important for people to know about people who are deafblind so they can understand their challenges, communicate respectfully, and help create a more inclusive and supportive community.”
Supported Living Homes
DBOS’ Supported Living Homes provide accessible, barrier-free, affordable housing and access to specialized support services 24/7. The organization takes a holistic approach, offering an array of services customized to each person’s unique needs, method of communication, and goals to increase their independence and enrich their life.
Installation Locations
Community members are encouraged to explore yarn bombing installations across Ontario. Key locations include:
- London
- St. Thomas
- Kitchener
- Innisfil
- Newmarket
- Peterborough
- Cobourg
- Oshawa
- Ottawa
- Greater Sudbury and surrounding areas
A full list of locations is available upon request or on the DBOS website.
Join the Celebration
Everyone is invited to participate in National Deafblind Awareness Month and help spread the message of inclusion, creativity, and connection.
About DeafBlind Ontario Services
DeafBlind Ontario Services supports people who are deafblind, as well as those living with a developmental disability who are Deaf, hard of hearing, or use non-traditional forms of communication. Specialized services are customized to each person’s unique needs, method of communication, and goals to live their best life.
For media inquiries, please contact: Madison Smith, DeafBlind Ontario Services, 905-853-2862 ext. 224, m.smith@deafblindontario.com
