A two-day clinic run by Luxottica employees, volunteer optometrists and optical dispensers has ensured children on Palm Island have access to the eye care and eyewear they need.
Over 300 children from St Michael’s Primary School and Bwcolgman High School received free eye tests and, for those who required them, prescription glasses thanks to the OneSight Foundation.
Children that needed glasses initially chose a set of frames from the ready-made available selection, to give them improved sight straight away. They received their custom-made glasses a few weeks later.
Optometrist Shannon Peckham, Luxottica’s first indigenous optometry graduate, said many of the children screened do not have access to basic eye health services.
While it’s great to help over 300 students at this clinic, we’d love to come back and also help many other Australians in the Townsville area who find it difficult to access basic eye care
“Palm Island has so many children who don’t have the means or mobility to access the proper care their eyes need. Having the opportunity to provide these essential services to those in need, the majority of whom are indigenous, is very rewarding.
“While it’s great to help over 300 students at this clinic, we’d love to come back and also help many other Australians in the Townsville area who find it difficult to access basic eye care,” said Ms Peckham.
The much needed eye screening and testing clinics are an initiative of Luxottica. The company plans to work with OneSight partner organisations; The Salvation Army and Mission Australia to hold more clinics in Australia during 2011.