According to the National PTA (2006), "It is estimated that more than 10 million children (ages 0-10) suffer from vision problems that may cause them to fail in school." Untreated vision problems result in headaches and/or asthenopia (burning/itching eyes). As a result, affected children often refuse to participate in activities (e.g. reading books or the blackboard, etc.) which cause the discomfort. Untreated vision problems put students at risk for serious injury, further vision issues and can cause behavioral problems in the classroom.

Vision for Children was created to help children from low income families receive the glasses they need. The program is a partnership between the Low Vision Clinic and area school districts. The children are provided optometric exams and glasses at a minimal cost through two ways:

* Saturday Clinics through which 60 to 80 children are seen with the help of many volunteers
* Kids Clinic is held during the week to help children whose families have to work on Saturday

Saturday Clinics only run when funding is available. If you are interested in helping students achieve their academic potential because they can read the overhead, blackboard and a book, please contact the Development Office at 214-828-9900 or nsanders@dallasservices.org.