Community Outreach
Vision First
The Cleveland Browns and the Cleveland Clinic Cole Eye Institute have partnered to provide free eye exams to students in the Cleveland Municipal School District.
The Vision First program, a partnership between the Cleveland Clinic Cole Eye Institute, The Cleveland Browns and the Cleveland Municipal School District, provides sight-saving comprehensive vision screening and eye examinations in a child-friendly vision bus to all pre-k, kindergarten and first grade students. The program will visit approximately 80 elementary schools throughout the course of the year, beginning with the unveiling of the newly designed vehicle in the fall of 2006.
Early detection and treatment of vision disorders give children a better opportunity to develop educationally, socially, emotionally and physically. Serious vision problems, such as amblyopia (lazy eye), can be avoided by referring children for early treatment. Early identification of vision problems is an important component of child wellness.
The Cleveland Clinic Cole Eye Institute is entering the fifth year of the program and has provided eye care examination to over 20,000 students through this program. The Vision First program has set a benchmark in vision screening in Ohio and nationally. The Cleveland Browns have partnered with The Cleveland Clinic with the goal to provide free eyeglasses to those who need them. The Cleveland Browns are excited to become the major sponsors of a program that is rewarding for everyone involved.
How Vision First works:
Vision examinations are conducted in our specially equipped, child-friendly Vision Bus, with a Cleveland Clinic Optometrist, and ophthalmic technician. Each child’s examination includes assessing visual acuity and depth perception and checking for crossed or lazy eye and the need for glasses. If a child receives a prescription for eyeglasses, they will receive one
free pair of glasses through our arrangements with Partners in Vision.
To learn more about the Cleveland Clinic Cole Eye Institute visit their website at www.clevelandclinic.org/eye/. The Vision First schedule can be accessed through the Cleveland Municipal School District website at www.cleveland.k12.oh.us..
