Children across the country are set to benefit from free eye care through the ‘United for Vision’ healthcare initiative, a partnership between Courts Optical and United Way Trinidad and Tobago.
Since the programme began in June, 207 students have been screened, with 183 referred for further examinations, and up to 250 children expected to receive prescription glasses.
Ten primary school students are already seeing a brighter future, after receiving prescription eyewear through the ‘United for Vision’ initiative – a partnership between Courts Optical and United Way Trinidad and Tobago.
The programme provides free vision screenings, comprehensive eye examinations and prescription eye wear to selected students, helping to remove a major barrier to learning.
“The leading causes of this have been increased screen time, prolonged and near work, reduced outdoor activity, family history, a lack of routine comprehensive eye exams. Left unaddressed, these eye conditions can affect reading ability, concentration, classroom engagement and overall academic performance.”
Through the initiative, more than 200 students have already been screened, with those requiring additional care receiving professional eye examinations and fitted prescription glasses.
CEO of United Way Trinidad and Tobago, Gail Sooknarine, said the programme is helping to address a challenge many families face when trying to access quality eye care.
“For many families accessing eye care and purchasing glasses is simply beyond what their household can manage. Today, together with courts optical, we are removing one of those barriers. With this partnership, it’s more than eye examination and glasses. It is about giving children every opportunity to participate to learn and to build confidence to reach their full potential.”
Managing Director of Unicomer Trinidad Limited, Shiva Mungal, said the initiative reflects the company’s commitment to improving access to essential eye care services.
“We recognize that good vision is not a luxury, it affects educational performance, productivity, well being and overall quality of life. We also recognize that access to quality eyecare could be challenging for many families.”
The partnership aims to ensure that no child’s education is limited by an undiagnosed vision problem, with free screenings, examinations and prescription eyewear, continuing for eligible students across Trinidad.