Free Eye Exams, Glasses Help Sussex County Children Prepare for School

REHOBOTH BEACH, Del.– Children attending Delaware YMCA summer camps are heading into the new school year with clearer vision thanks to a visit from the Vision to Learn mobile clinic at the Sussex Family YMCA.

Vision to Learn, a nonprofit organization that provides free eye exams and prescription glasses to children who may not otherwise have access to vision care.

Sussex Family YMCA Director of Member Engagement and Sales Shay Almond said access to eye care can have a significant impact on a child’s success both inside and outside of the classroom.

“When a child can’t see clearly, it impacts so many things for them,” Almond said. Their confidence, their learning, their ability to participate in school, programs, sports– all those things. The fact that Vision to Learn comes out here and does these services for free is huge.”

Optometrist Dr. Rachel Hartman said there are several warning signs parents can watch for that may indicate their child is having vision problems.

“If you see your child squinting, sitting too close to the computer or TV screen, or holding things really close, those can all be concerns,” Hartman said. “Shutting one eye can definitely be a sign, and headaches are a big one.”

Almond said having the ability to see clearly gives children more than just better eyesight– it gives them confidence.

“Something that we see here at the Y often is confidence,” Almond said. “I want to see them start school knowing they can see the board, knowing they can participate fully. Knowing that this is going to give them the confidence to learn and grow means the world to me.”