In many classrooms, poor eyesight goes unnoticed, quietly holding children back from reaching their full potential. For learners at Prestwich Street Primary School in Cape Town, that reality has now changed thanks to the work of the Alive Foundation.
The non-profit organisation recently conducted vision screenings as part of its Clear Vision for Learning Project, assessing 31 learners. Of those, 27 were found to need glasses, and one child required further medical attention from an ophthalmologist. Shortly after, 20 children received their first pairs of spectacles—giving them the ability to finally see clearly in class.
For many of these learners, something as simple as seeing the board or reading a book had been a daily struggle. Poor vision had affected their ability to focus, participate, and keep up academically. The introduction of glasses is not just a health intervention; it is a direct investment in their education and confidence.
The initiative was made possible with support from partners, including Tomlinson Optometrists, and reflects the foundation’s broader mission to uplift communities through practical, hands-on action. Founded in 2012, the Alive Foundation focuses on supporting schools, seniors, hospitals, and vulnerable groups across Cape Town and surrounding areas.
Beyond vision care, the organisation has also contributed to improving school facilities, restoring play areas, upgrading sick rooms, and even helping fund school photos for learners who had gone years without them.
This story highlights a simple truth: access to basic tools like glasses can change the trajectory of a child’s life. It is a reminder that small, targeted interventions can have lasting impact.
