Program Impact

The Glasses for Kids program is pivotal for a child’s development, providing critical vision care that supports educational, physical, and social growth.

Clear vision is essential for children to effectively learn, engage with their environment, and interact socially.

Early detection and correction of vision issues not only enhances academic performance but also fosters better social integration and lifelong learning.

By offering eyewear at no cost to students or their families, Glasses for Kids promotes educational equity, especially for those from disadvantaged backgrounds, ensuring every child has the opportunity to succeed.

The 2024 - 2027 Program

With substantial support from the Victorian Government, we have set ambitious goals for the 2024-2027 iteration of the program!

600 Schools

Expanding our reach to include 473 additional schools across Victoria.

107830 Students

Increasing the number of students screened to ensure widespread impact.

Impact

Since 2020, Glasses for Kids has made a profound impact!

Over 46,500 students have been targeted, with 19,663 screenings and 8,452 comprehensive eye tests conducted. The provision of 4,447 pairs of glasses surpassed all expectations and has provided those students with significant improvements in their engagement, wellbeing, sense of belonging, behaviour and attendance.

(as at 29 May 2024)

Program feedback between 2020 - 2023

Feedback provided by teachers, principals, well-being staff, business managers and support staff; all with uplifting stories of the positive impact the program has had.

of staff reported an improved student engagement in class

85 %

of staff reported improved student sense of wellbeing

82 %

of staff reported improved student behaviour in class

76 %

of staff reported improved student sense of belonging

59 %

The impact of the Glass for Kids program resonates deeply within the communities in which we work. Here are some reflections from previous participants in the program:

Empowering the disadvantaged

“In our school where families are highly disadvantaged and this disadvantage is increasing, Glasses for Kids removed a barrier to students getting the healthcare outcomes they deserve.”

Limiting the tyranny of distance

“This program has been fantastic for our school as we are remote/rural, and the students have no access to an eye test locally.”

Enhancing Learning and Self-Worth

“When students receive glasses, it significantly improves their ability to focus in the classroom, enhancing their capacity to learn literacy and numeracy skills and boosting their sense of self-worth."

Invaluable Support

“The program itself is invaluable in allowing access to support that may not be known or accessible by many families. Such a great program for our students from low-economic families. Financial relief as well as education around the need to have your child’s eyes checked was very much appreciated by our parents."