Kentucky honors sign language interpreter for weather radio initiative
- The 'Moore Safe Nights' program will distribute 700 weather alert radios to the deaf and hard of hearing in Kentucky.
- The initiative is named in honor of Virginia Moore, a sign language interpreter who advocated for the deaf community and passed away last year.
- This program aims to ensure equal access to critical weather information, enhancing safety for vulnerable populations during severe weather events.
Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear announced a program named 'Moore Safe Nights' aimed at providing weather alert radios to individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing. This initiative, which honors the late Virginia Moore, a dedicated sign language interpreter and advocate for the deaf community, will distribute 700 specially adapted radios at no cost to eligible Kentuckians. The radios feature pillow-shaker and strobe-light attachments to ensure users receive severe weather warnings, addressing the increased vulnerability of deaf individuals during sleep. Beshear expressed his emotional connection to Moore, recalling her supportive nature during the pandemic. The program is funded through an emergency preparedness grant, with plans to seek additional funding to expand access to all Kentuckians in need. The initiative reflects a commitment to ensuring equal access to critical safety information for all residents, particularly during severe weather events.