Ohio State Representative Gayle Manning participated in the official launch of the OhioSEE Program, aimed at enhancing eyesight care for children in some of the state’s most underserved areas. The program was unveiled by Ohio Governor Mike DeWine at Campus International School in Cleveland, where several kindergarten through third-grade students received complimentary eyeglasses from Vision to Learn, a vendor associated with OhioSEE. This initiative directly addresses a critical gap in vision care for children in Ohio.
Addressing Vision Care Gaps
According to information from the Ohio Department of Health, approximately 80% of children identified through vision screenings as needing additional care do not receive it. To combat this issue, the OhioSEE Program has been launched in 15 counties across the state, including Lorain County, which was specifically chosen for its high need.
OhioSEE provides essential vision services, including comprehensive eye examinations and, if necessary, eyeglasses, directly within the schools. This approach aims to remove barriers to access and ensure that children can receive the care they need without burdening their families financially.
“I’m so excited that Lorain was selected to participate in this pilot program,” Manning stated. “This will help so many children in our community receive the vision care they need and help with their learning in the classroom.” Her enthusiasm underscores the positive impact that such initiatives can have on local communities.
Program Details and Goals
The OhioSEE Program is designed to serve children at critical stages of their educational journey. By focusing on students in kindergarten through third grade, the program targets a population that can greatly benefit from early intervention in vision care. Students receiving services through OhioSEE will be able to access necessary eye exams and eyewear without any cost to their families, fostering a healthier learning environment.
The launch event at Campus International School also served as a platform to highlight the importance of vision health in educational success. By addressing vision issues early, OhioSEE aims to improve academic performance and overall quality of life for many young students.
For more information about the OhioSEE Program and the services offered, interested parties can visit the official page at Ohio Department of Health.
