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Early Youth Eyecare (EYE) Community InititiativeHelping children see the possibilitiesThe problemBetween 10 and 15 percent of children between the ages of 5 and 11 have an undiagnosed vision problem significant enough to affect their performance in the classroom and in their daily life. Unfortunately, children are not always aware they have a vision problem, and therefore do not complain to an adult who can help get them diagnosis and treatment. Also, due to budget cuts and other demands, vision screenings in schools are no longer a routine activity. A solutionThe EYE Community Initiative aims to eliminate vision problems as one roadblock in education. It provides vision screenings for children who are in kindergarten, first and fifth grade and also coordinates and provides vision care for uninsured or under insured children. During 2008, the program provided free vision screening for more than 7,000 Minneapolis grade school children. The futureThe program incorporates translators, volunteer training, resource materials, technology and follow-up treatments. EYE partners with Phillips Eye Institute, school districts, school nurses and the Minnesota Department of Health. During the next few years, EYE will expand to provide services outside the Minneapolis school district to other metro communities, early childhood centers and eventually, statewide. How you can helpVolunteers are needed to perform and assist with the screenings currently held in the Minneapolis public schools. The EYE program provides monthly training sessions and offers flexible scheduling. Volunteer teams are also welcome. For more information, contact Melissa Graf, volunteer coordinator, at 612-775-8964 or melissa.graf@allina.com. Make a donationDonations help the EYE Community Initiative provide vision screenings and follow-up care when needed.
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Phillips Eye Institute
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