Children's Need for Clear Vision in the United States

The Need - and the Impact - of Eyeglasses and Clear Vision for Children

The need for access to clear vision remains significant for children. As noted by the Annie E. Casey Foundation as of 2024, 4.6 million children across the country are uninsured. And subsequen to the passage of One, Big, Beautiful Bill Act in July of 2025, it is anticipated that many more children will become uninsured due to changes in CHIP, healthcare regulations, and modifications to Medicaid. The Congressional Budget Office estimates that than 15 million individuals will lose their health insurance coverage by 2034. New Eyes provides children in financial need with 2 pairs of prescription glasses. Why do we provide 2 pairs? We know the reality of life, and things happen, things sometimes get accidently broken and perhaps misplaced. And we know the importance of clear vision, and what this means for students’ participation and learning growth. The gift of prescription glasses makes an enormous difference to students, enabling them to continue their academic success.

New Eyes works closely with parents, school nurses, and community social workers who request glasses on behalf of children who cannot afford them. The impact of clear vision on a child’s ability to learn isprofound. Research from the American Academy of Ophthalmology shows that 80% of learning during a child’s first 12 years comes through the eyes

Today’s learning environment places even greater demands on vision. Studies show that 80% ofchildren use digital devices for more than three hours each day,and prolonged screen time is linked to increased rates of myopia. Furthermore, the National Institutes of Health state that children with vision impairment are more likely to experience educational challenges, social and emotional difficulties and reduced opportunities later in life.Children have tremendous potential, but they need the tools to succeed. Something as simple as prescription eyeglasses can open the door to learning, confidence and opportunity. New Eyes helpschildren like Ruth, who is working hard to build a brighter future for herself and her family.

For our future and our collective educational investments to truly be meaningful, children must be able to participate in and out of the classroom. Let’s support our children’s learning journey and provide them with the tools they need to succeed by giving them clear vision.