Ministry Update: CEMIPRE (Chile)

It looks mundane and very “normal” to prepare a simple meal as a whole, but for people in CEMIPRE ’s programs, it’s the first time in a long time (or in their lives) that they have the confidence and tools to do it. CEMIPRE seeks to train visually impaired people in a safe environment and give them techniques and strategies to develop a more independent life. Preparing a meal yourself is a step towards that goal.

Users worked in stations preparing different parts of a meal. While one learned to turn on the burner of a stove, another stirred meat in a pan, and others peeled tomatoes or cut and ground avocados.

Many participants have never used a knife or other kitchen tools like this, so CEMIPRE provides these sessions to help them learn practical skills in a safe environment. Each user has gloves and a hairnet, and an occupational therapist, audiologist, and various interns of these professions give support and instruction.