Helen Keller International
For children, the ability to see well is integral to the learning process and significantly impacts their chances of success at school and in life. Difficulty seeing has life-long impact, as visually impaired adults often have lower workforce participation and productivity rates and higher rates of depression and anxiety.
In 2022, HFNJ provided a $100,000 grant to Helen Keller International to support the New Jersey Vision Program in Newark.
Through the first six months of the New Jersey Vision Program, HKI provided vision screenings to 520 students at Science Park High School and University High School in Newark. 212 of these students (41%) failed their initial vision screening – which is substantially higher than the national average of 25%. Eyeglasses were given to 116 individuals, and two students received referrals to medical providers for possible treatment for more complicated eye health concerns.
In addition, 333 community members (youth and adults) received vision screenings at community organizations including Boys and Girls Club of Newark, Covenant House, New Jersey Re-entry Corporation, The Bridge Imani Center, and YMCA of Newark’s Transitional Housing Program. Among this especially vulnerable and underserved population, 253 (76% of total screened) individuals required a pair of prescription glasses.