For the First Time, the World Came Into Focus for Chwinto’s Children
Over 400 children in the Chwinto community near Doboro Nsawam benefited from free eye care and basic health services as the Hope In Sight Foundation marked the third edition of its annual “Make a Child Smile” outreach.
The initiative, held on Saturday, January 3, 2026, provided comprehensive eye screening, general health checks, school kits and hot meals to children and adolescents aged between one and 17, many of whom were accessing eye care services for the first time.
Medical professionals deployed by the foundation conducted vision screening and basic examinations, referring cases that required further attention. The intervention aimed at identifying preventable and treatable eye conditions early, particularly in underserved communities where access to specialised healthcare remains limited.
Beyond healthcare, the outreach took on a festive atmosphere, with music, games and volunteers engaging children while distributing school supplies and meals. Parents and caregivers described the programme as both a relief and an opportunity to address health concerns that would otherwise go unnoticed.
The “Make a Child Smile” initiative began in January 2024 as a personal birthday outreach by the foundation’s founder, Adjoa Obuo Duodu, and has since evolved into an annual flagship programme of the Hope In Sight Foundation.
Founded on the belief that clear vision is critical to a child’s development, the foundation focuses on taking eye care services directly into communities, eliminating financial and geographical barriers that often prevent early diagnosis and treatment.
Ms. Duodu, who grew up with high myopia, said her personal experience shaped the mission of the organisation.
“Untreated vision challenges can quietly undermine a child’s confidence, learning ability and future opportunities,” she said. “This outreach is about giving children the chance to see clearly and dream boldly.”
Community leaders in Chwinto welcomed the intervention, noting that preventive eye care and early health screening are essential to improving academic performance and overall wellbeing among children in rural and peri-urban communities.
The 2026 outreach was supported by corporate and individual partners, including Fidelity Bank Ghana, which partnered the programme as part of its corporate social responsibility, and Peeva Beverages, which provided refreshments. Board members, volunteers, medical personnel and donors were also present to support the smooth execution of the event.
Hope In Sight Foundation says it remains committed to expanding its outreach programmes nationwide, advocating for early intervention and ensuring that no child’s potential is limited by poor eyesight.
