CVI partnered with Sight Savers America to host a training clinic for electronic magnifier donations. The clinic provided vision assistive technology to CVI clients and visually impaired students throughout Metro Atlanta. Sight Savers specializes in supplying electronic video magnifiers and other assistive devices to children who lack the financial resources to obtain them independently.
Sight Savers America purchases this equipment, which is not covered by medical insurance plans, and places it in the homes of children with visual impairment at no cost to the family. This technology allows these children to read, write, complete homework and feel confidence at school.
Desktops, which cost over $3,000 each, last a decade or longer, and can carry a student throughout their educational journey and into college. Seven students, referred to Sight Savers America by CVI’s Pediatric Optometrist, Dr. Sarah Dille Lee, received desktop computers, setting these students up for academic success.
“This levels the playing field. If you can’t do your homework and the other kids can, you’re at a distinct disadvantage. We assist families to make sure their kids have the technology they need,” said Sight Savers America CEO, Dawn DeCarlo, OD.
An optometrist herself, Dr. DeCarlo previously referred clients to Sight Savers America, and she reflected on the difference the tech makes in the lives of the children who receive them.
“Parents notice a big difference in independence and self-esteem, including improvement in reading and writing,” said DeCarlo. “Most of them are already hard-working students, and now they can get good grades with less of a struggle.”
Visit here to learn more about CVI’s Children and Youth Services.