White Cane Program & Orientation and Mobility Training for Blind Missourians

Safe, confident navigation is fundamental to independence for blind and visually impaired individuals. The Missouri Council of the Blind is committed to ensuring that every legally blind Missourian has access to the tools and training they need to navigate their community safely — starting with a free white cane.

MCB White Cane Program

About the Program

MCB's White Cane Program provides a free white cane to every qualifying blind Missouri resident who requests one. Because every blind Missourian deserves safe and independent mobility, we've made it straightforward to apply — no financial qualification required.

The White Cane Program is administered by the MCB Public Relations Committee. One cane per year is provided per eligible applicant.

Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for a free white cane from MCB, you must:

  • Be a legal resident of Missouri
  • Meet the legal definition of blindness as verified by an ophthalmologist or qualifying authority

What Type of Cane Will I Receive?

The cane you receive depends on your MCB membership status and whether it is your first request.

MCB Member
First request
A graphite folding cane in the requested length (unless a one-piece fiberglass cane or blind support cane is specifically requested)
Subsequent requests
A one-piece fiberglass cane in the requested length, or a blind support cane if needed
Join MCB for Member Benefits
Non-Member (legally blind Missouri resident)
All requests
A one-piece fiberglass cane in the requested length, or a blind support cane if needed
Tip: MCB members receive a graphite folding cane on their first request — lighter and more portable than a fiberglass cane. Join MCB to access this benefit.

How to Apply for a Free White Cane

Option 1 — Apply Online

Recommended
  1. Submit the online application

    Complete the White Cane Program form online — takes about 3 minutes.

    Start Online Application
  2. Send your blindness verification separately

    After submitting the form, send written verification of legal blindness (from an ophthalmologist, dated within the past year) by fax or email — verification is not collected through the online form.

Option 2 — Apply by Mail

  1. Download the PDF application

    Accessible tagged PDF

    mcb-white-cane-program-application-blank.pdf
  2. Gather your verification letter

    Written verification of legal blindness from an ophthalmologist, dated within the past year, including eye condition, visual acuity, and field of vision.

  3. Mail application + verification
    Missouri Council of the Blind
    5453 Chippewa Street
    St. Louis, MO 63109
Apply Online Now Download PDF Application Call (314) 832-7172

Application Denied? Your Right to Appeal

If your White Cane Program application is denied, you have the right to file a written appeal with the MCB Board of Directors at its next regularly scheduled meeting. The MCB office will notify you in writing of the Board's decision. Contact the MCB office at (314) 832-7172 for assistance with the appeals process.

Orientation & Mobility Training in Missouri

What Is Orientation & Mobility Training?

Orientation and Mobility (O&M) training teaches blind and visually impaired individuals how to travel safely and independently using the white cane, environmental cues, and navigation techniques.

O&M specialists work one-on-one with blind individuals to develop confidence navigating homes, workplaces, public transportation, and community environments.

How to Access O&M Training in Missouri

O&M training for blind and visually impaired Missourians is available through Missouri's vocational rehabilitation system and related state services. MCB advocates for accessible O&M training statewide and can help connect members with training resources in their area.

Coming in Phase 2: A full orientation and mobility resource section will be developed in partnership with MCB's Education & Advocacy Committee.

Get O&M Guidance

Contact the MCB office for guidance on accessing O&M training in your area.

Transportation Committee

Robyn Wallen

transportation@moblind.org
October 15 Every Year

White Cane Day — Celebrating Independence

White Cane Safety Day is observed annually on October 15. MCB and its affiliates use White Cane Day to raise public awareness about the rights and abilities of blind pedestrians and to celebrate the independence that a white cane represents.

View MCB Events Calendar

Frequently Asked Questions

You must be a legal resident of Missouri and meet the legal definition of blindness as verified by an ophthalmologist or qualifying authority. No financial qualification is required.

MCB members receiving their first cane get a graphite folding cane (lighter and more portable). Subsequent member requests and all non-member requests receive a one-piece fiberglass cane or blind support cane as needed.

MCB provides one white cane per year, per eligible applicant.

You need written verification of legal blindness from an ophthalmologist or equivalent authority, dated within the past year. The letter must include your eye condition, visual acuity, and field of vision.

You have the right to file a written appeal with the MCB Board of Directors at its next regularly scheduled meeting. Contact the MCB office at (314) 832-7172 for assistance with the appeals process.

Apply online at moblind.org/membership/forms/white-cane/ — the fastest way to submit. After submitting the online form, separately send written verification of legal blindness (from an ophthalmologist, dated within the past year) by fax to (314) 832-7796 or email to aa@moblind.org. A printable PDF application is also available if you prefer to apply by mail.

More MCB Programs for Blind Missourians

Adaptive Technology Grants

Up to 50% cost reimbursement on screen readers, magnification software, and more.

Learn About Grants

Special Services Program

Assistance for blind Missourians in financial hardship — utilities, medical, and daily living.

Learn About Special Services

Educational Scholarships

Scholarship awards up to $2,000 for blind and visually impaired Missouri students.

Learn About Scholarships

Summer Camp

Summer camp experiences for blind and visually impaired Missouri youth.

Learn About Camp

Ready to Apply for a Free White Cane?

Apply online in minutes, or download the PDF application. We're here to help every legally blind Missourian gain the tools they need for safe, independent mobility.

Apply Online Now Download PDF Call (314) 832-7172 Join MCB