Aramco supports public health, Houston Health Foundation to boost See to Succeed program

Kicking off National Public Health Week, April 1-7, Aramco Americas continued its partnership with the Houston Health Foundation to support the See to Succeed program—a special project started in 2011 by the Houston Health Department. 

Recognizing the need for annual comprehensive eye exams for students to be successful in the classroom, the program has helped more than 100,000 students, ages 6-18, throughout the Greater Houston area since its inception.

Aramco’s support as its lead ‘Visionary Partner’ has enabled students to thrive in the classroom.  “I’m in awe of the mission of this program,” said Stephen Williams, director, Houston Health Department. “I see their faces and recognize the impact this has on their lives.”

One of the earliest Houston school districts, Aldine ISD, to participate in the program was in attendance with students from elementary through high school.   “I’ve read about this program but to see it today is so special,” said LaTonya M. Goffney, superintendent, Aldine ISD.  “As educators we know sight is so important.”  

Taking Aramco representatives on a tour was Dr. Veronica Mendez, clinical director, and Jacy King, program director, who said, “this is one of the best jobs I’ve ever had.”

Nearly 40 Aramco volunteers signed up to participate in this week’s schedule of exams.  They helped with the pre-screening, data entry, and coordinating students through the process.  A comprehensive exam is conducted by optometrists and students select their own eye glass frames.

“It’s less of a medical exam and more like a field trip for them,” said Angela Singletary, director of Health Services, Aldine ISD.  “It’s like one-stop shopping and they get to pick out their own fashionable fames.”

Students were pre-screened by their school nurse to participate and upwards of 92 percent needed glasses.  This week organizers expected higher than normal volume with day one serving an estimated 225 students with roughly 1,200 students receiving exams for the week.  

“This program is truly remarkable. It reaches into every aspect of their lives,” said Chief of Staff for Mayor John Whitmire’s Office, Chris Newport, who summed up the feelings of many in attendance.   “The mayor is absolutely thrilled with this program.  Houston can’t thank Aramco enough for its partnership.”  Newport noted this was a great way to kick off ‘Aramco Week’ and congratulated the company on its 50-year anniversary in Houston.

Aramco Americas President & CEO Nabeel I. AlAfaleg, who toured the program for a second year, thanked all in attendance and said Aramco seeks to be a community partner wherever it operates around the world.  He credited Houston employees for their strong commitment to community service.

Our involvement with the Houston Health Foundation gives Aramco Americas the opportunity to help with other health needs for youth besides vision though its Brilliant Future program which includes dental exams in its Project Saving Smiles.