VisionCorps Aids Vision-Challenged Uninsured Chesco Residents

WEST CHESTER, PA — More than 1,000 Chester County kids have gotten free vision screenings through VisionCorps and the non-profit is ready to do what it takes to help anyone with vision loss stay independent.

The West Chester VisionCorps office is closed because of the coronavirus pandemic, but the organization is making home visits and working virtually to aid blind and low-vision people access what they need to improve their lives. They've served 125 clients in Chester County in 2020, with 1,700 hours of service provided.

Linda Greth is Director of Rehabilitative Services for VisionCorps. She said VisionCorps case workers evaluate individual needs and consider the goals clients have for their lives, then help create ways to improve the quality of life for low-vision or blind people.

"What people need to know is that our services are free, or low-cost," Greth said.

VisionCorps has voucher programs that are meant to help blind and low-vision people who also have low incomes. Working together with the Pennsylvania Vision Foundation, VisionCorps can offer free vision examinations and basic frames and lenses to low-income families, particularly those who don't have vision insurance.

"We have many participating doctors," said Greth.

The program for free vision exams, with basic frames and lenses, is supported through Vision Benefits of America. Greth said 141 people in Chester County benefitted from the program this year.

Greth explained a case worker might work with a client at home toward independence around the kitchen, using appliances or cooking. They might put raised markings in places that will help a vision-impaired person navigate. In each room of the house they consider the activities there and how to help a client manage better.

The organization has operated for 90 years based in Lancaster County but reaching into four nearby counties over the decades.

Its services include "Orientation in Mobility," which focuses on helping low-vision persons get around. That might mean within their own home, or by bus or train. For some, it might include learning to use a white cane.

VisionCorps has tech centers where vision-challenged people can learn how to be more independent by using magnification tools. The centers are currently closed and Greth said this training has moved to one-on-one home visits for now.

Another important service, Greth explained, is support groups. Right now through group phone calling those who might benefit can join conversations where they make connections, share resources and just support each other. The group here is called "Let's Chat Chester County."

Greth and Community Relations Specialist Carol Gifford arrange and provide presentations to educate people about working with the vision-impaired. It's another free service and right now it's also happening virtually.

The largest group of clients are 65 years and older.

"As people age, we expect there are a lot more who are in need of our services," said Gifford. She said VisionCorps and the Pennsylvania Vision Foundation have been preparing for these years when the Baby Boom generation would begin to see its vision decline, and have increased needs.

VisionCorps is in Chester, Lancaster, Lebanon, York, and Adams counties.

For more information or to see if you qualify for this program please call VisionCorps at 717-291-5951 ext. 4141.