With the assistance of the Elks National Foundation through the Promise Grant, the Lodge will hold an Eye Care Day. Pre-school and elementary age children will be invited to come to the Lodge and play games, win prizes, enjoy food, and be seen by one of the three participating optometrists and staff. If the child needs further exams or glasses, they might be eligible for a $100.00 voucher to see one of the participating doctors.
Grant project chair Elaine Heger is also a teacher at Ivans Elementary School. She knows firsthand the need for students to be screened. “Many of my students struggle in school simply because no one knew they had a vision deficit. A simple screening could make all the difference in the world for these children,” stated Heger.
The Elks National foundation through the Community Investment Program provides money to Lodges wishing to address a need in their community. Lodge Grant Chair, Betty Archambault, a retired high school teacher helped Heger come up with the idea after a Washington County Nurse told Archambault about the need for screenings.
“The grant will provide $2000.00 for vouchers,” states Archambault. “We will try to increase that amount between now and September,” she added.
Schools will be encouraged to notify students they suspect need screenings. Heger hopes the Lodge is packed with students for this first ever eye screening event by the Elks. “It will be a fun day for the children and parents. We are so excited to be able to provide this opportunity for the local children.”
For further information, parents may contact the Elks Lodge at 673-5194 and leave a message for either Heger or Archambault.
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