Sue Coburn, Chairman. Lions KidSight is a nation-wide program to ensure children receive eye screenings and follow-up care when needed. Our Lions are trained to be able to screen the vision health of our youngest, and most vulnerable easily and efficiently. Our KidSight team goes into local preschools and elementary schools annually to do the testing.
KidSight Colorado Program began in 2001 with the receipt of a grant from the Lions Club International Foundation. The program uses instrument-based technology to detect vision problems in young children. The program currently uses the Plusoptix Mobile 12 vision screener which detects vision problems in children quickly and the process is totally non-invasive. The equipment is designed specifically for children and is “kid friendly”.
The program has grown substantially from screening about 6,000 children early on to currently screening more than 52,000 children a year in Colorado. The Colorado Lions KidSight Program is one of the largest vision screening programs in the country. The Colorado Department of Education has approved our program for state required school screenings in school districts throughout Colorado. The program currently screens in 85 Colorado school districts and many early childhood, daycare and private schools.
KidSight Colorado provides free vision screening for children six months through six years. Lions Club volunteers throughout Colorado conduct vision screening sessions at preschools, kindergartens and other early childhood centers.
How Much Does This Cost?
The screening is free, thanks to the support and volunteer efforts of the Lions of Colorado. Funding is also provided by individuals, corporations and grants.
Fraser River Valley Lions Club KidSight Program
The Fraser River Valley Lions Club has a very active KidSight Program in place with the goal of identifying all children in Grand County in need of being followed by a vision care professional. Partnering with Grand Beginnings, a Grand County umbrella organization for early childhood needs, FRVLC volunteers trained on the PlusOptics equipment conduct screenings in the Fall and Spring at all of the day care centers in the county. Screenings are also held at the 9 Health Fair and Children’s Fair each year. Arrangements are also in the works to expand screenings to both West Grand and East Grand School Districts to assure no child is missed.
Families with children identified as having a potential vision issue, can also receive financial assistance though the Fraser Valley Lions Club Foundation. Applications for financial assistance are handled in partnership with Mountain Family Center or through the on-site nurses at each of the schools.