Helen Keller International’s US Vision Program addresses the critical need for vision care among under-served youth by providing free, comprehensive services directly in schools in high poverty communities. In July 2015, ChildSight® introduced a new program to bring vision care services to homeless youth in New York City through a partnership with The New York Community Trust.
During the first four months of the pilot we have screened 164 youth at Covenant House and found more than 75% of the young people we screen are in need of prescription eyeglasses (77%). Many have very high prescriptions and have been getting by with nothing. ChildSight® is also serving youth at The Ali Forney Center where we have experienced a similar level of need.
On Monday, December 7, 2015, The Chew’s Carla Hall visited the program at Covenant House’s shelter where she helped homeless youth select stylish frames for their new eyeglasses.