Vision Health

Project Description: Farmers in the cooperative voted to use Fair Trade Community Development Funds from 2020 and 2021 to cover the costs of eye health exams and prescription glasses if need was determined.
Reason for the Project: Elderly comprise 70% of the associates of the Colombian Coocentral cooperative. As a result, the need for corrective lenses is prevalent for this population. Previously, it was required to visit a eye specialist and many could not afford the high cost associated with these visits and prescription lenses.
Project Outcome: Through this project, a partnership was established with a specialized vision health provider. At the completion of the project, 101 associates and family members had access to eye health exams and prescription glasses if needed for vision correction. Improving vision and eye health also provides intangible benefits such as quality of life, confidence and participation in day to day life. In addition, covering these expenses allowed for income to be spent for other necessities.