18 Centers Opened to Provide Quality Eye Care Services and Sustainability
India, with its rich cultural heritage and vibrant communities, is also home to a staggering number of blind children. But Orbis International, a global non-profit organization, is changing the game with their groundbreaking initiative – the Green Vision Centers. These 18 centers, strategically located across Kerala, Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh, and West Bengal, are revolutionizing eye care services for children in rural communities.
Sustainability and Innovation at the Heart of Green Vision Centers
The Green Vision Centers are not your average eye care facilities. They are designed with minimal carbon impact, and their operations prioritize sustainability. Harnessing the power of solar energy, these centers ensure uninterrupted eye care services even in areas plagued by frequent power outages. This environmentally-friendly approach not only saves energy but also makes eye care accessible to all, regardless of electricity availability.
Empowering Women and Breaking Barriers
In West Bengal, five of the Green Vision Centers are going the extra mile to address traditional barriers for women and girls. Orbis International has trained and empowered women-led management teams to run these centers. This innovative approach creates job opportunities for women, enhancing their financial independence and breaking gender barriers. Additionally, research shows that when eye care is administered by women, more women in rural communities are likely to seek treatment for themselves and their children.
Comprehensive Eye Care Services for Children
At the Green Vision Centers, children receive comprehensive eye care services free of charge. This includes eye screenings, the provision of glasses, and primary eye care services for routine cases. Early detection is crucial in treating eye conditions, and the centers play a vital role in catching problems at their earliest stages. For complex cases requiring advanced treatment, the centers collaborate with existing hospitals for referrals, ensuring that children receive the care they need.
Community Outreach and Awareness
The Green Vision Centers extend their reach beyond the facilities’ walls through extensive community outreach programs. Outreach teams, armed with electric scooters, conduct eye screenings and awareness campaigns in local schools and door-to-door visits. By reaching out directly to communities, they create awareness about the importance of eye health and the services provided by the centers. This proactive approach ensures that no child in these rural areas is left behind when it comes to eye care.
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