March 17, 2021 — Amid Covid-19 and the financial uncertainty families are experiencing regarding their ability to pay for crucial expenses such as food and medical care, Essilor Vision Foundation (EVF) is highlighting its See Kids Soar program, a free in-office cause campaign designed to help reach those who need vision care but cannot afford it. 

“Now more than ever, there are people who are going through hardships and need help,” says Neena James, O.D., (pictured below) of 20/20 Eye Care in Huntsville, AL. “See Kids Soar is a great way for our practice to give back to what we’re passionate about. We can do more and serve our community in a safe and contact-free way.” 

EVF has shared that optometrists who enroll in its See Kids Soar program receive a cause marketing kit including brochures and a brochure holder, education flyers, lanyards, buttons, digital assets, near point cards, pens, tear pads, and window clings. O.D.s also receive a free FoxFire Systems Group credit card processing machine (valued at nearly $500), which allows practices to easily accept patients’ donations at checkout. 

“It is so important to identify vision issues early on, and that’s why our team has worked so hard to develop an easy way to get everyone involved,” says Korry Petterson, FoxFire president. “The checkout process is simple and doesn’t create extra steps for anyone in the practice when asking for a donation. Our hope is that by creating this technology, we can encourage more support for this amazing cause.”

And, according to IEG, 87% of consumers will buy a product because the company they’re supporting cares about a cause that’s relevant to them.

Reflecting this sentiment, Dr. James has shared that 20/20 Eye Care has seen a positive response to the program.

“The staff is excited to ask patients for donations,” she says. “It’s a fun ice breaker and conversation starter, and it’s nice to have something good to talk about. Our patients are happy that we’re participating in See Kids Soar to make a difference in our community. They appreciate their eye care more, and they feel good about helping others.” 

The practice raised more than $400 in one month to support the program.

“It’s an easy way to get your whole office involved in giving back, and it helps reiterate the importance of eye health with your patients,” says Dr. James.

Learn more about EVF’s See Kids Soar program here: evfusa.org/sks.