In recognition of Amblyopia Awareness Month, the For Eye Care Foundation held a pediatric vision screening on Saturday, Aug. 1, during the Caridad Center’s annual back-to-school event in Boynton Beach.

Volunteers screened 47 children, with 11 referred to local ophthalmologists for further evaluation and monitoring. For some children, it was their first eye exam. Parents were also educated about the risks of amblyopia and provided with additional resources.

The event was made possible by a team of volunteers, including Dr. Laura B. Sims; Dr. Lauree Manning and her staff; Nova Southeastern University medical students Armand Ceniza and Wesley Burrow; Delray Beach Lions Felisa De Kler and Elise Chang; and Michelle Russell and Rosemary Mulero from the Lighthouse for the Blind of the Palm Beaches.

Additionally, the event was supported by Brenda Lopez, who provided the invitation, and Connie Berry, co-founder of the Caridad Center.

Early vision screenings are critical in identifying conditions that can affect vision and development.