On 9 February 2021, The We Foundation organized a free eye check-up camp at Domdoma Primary School, Domdoma village, Birbhum district. This initiative aimed to provide accessible eye care services to underserved communities, including small and marginalized farmers, under the Domdoma Gram Panchayat, Suri-II Block.
Key Achievements
- 200 beneficiaries received professional eye examinations conducted by two optometrists from Kolkata and a government-appointed ophthalmologist surgeon from Bolpur Subdivisional Hospital.
- 100 patients were referred for eye surgeries at Suri Hospital to address critical visual impairments.
- Distribution of free medicines addressed immediate healthcare needs.
- Free spectacles were provided to patients diagnosed with refractive errors on 31 March 2021, with additional distribution on 4 April 2021 for those unable to collect earlier.
Community Engagement and Process
To ensure effective outreach and participation:
- A TOTO van awareness campaign conducted a week before the event informed residents about the camp’s venue and services.
- Beneficiaries were identified based on criteria such as BPL status, family income, farming occupation, and having no prior eye check-up in the past three years.
- Tokens were issued to streamline the process, tracking each step from registration to screening and service delivery.
- Social workers supported beneficiaries by guiding them through registration, waiting areas, and screening rooms, and ensuring prescriptions were collected for eyeglasses.
Collaborative Effort
The camp demonstrated the power of partnerships between NGOs, local government, and the community:
- A government ophthalmologist and healthcare professionals ensured high-quality services.
- Dedicated volunteers from The We Foundation and Domdoma village ensured smooth logistics, community mobilization, and post-camp follow-ups.
Community Feedback
The camp received widespread appreciation from the villagers, many of whom had never accessed such services before:
“I am a farmer. The doctors examined my eyes with care and recommended eyeglasses for better vision. I am very grateful for this initiative,” said a 65-year-old beneficiary from Domdoma village.
Media Recognition
The initiative was covered by local Bengali newspapers and reporters, highlighting its success and the growing need for similar healthcare interventions.
Legacy and Future Demand
This first-of-its-kind camp in Domdoma village addressed immediate healthcare needs and raised awareness about the importance of regular eye check-ups. Villagers have strongly expressed the need for similar camps in the future, marking this initiative as a transformative milestone in local healthcare delivery.
The We Foundation remains steadfast in its mission to provide equitable and accessible healthcare to rural communities, ensuring a brighter, healthier future for all.