ICICI Lombard General Insurance Company Limited's latest CSR initiative, 'Caring Hands', has brought life-changing benefits to more than 500,000 children across India. The campaign, which focuses on providing eye care and glasses to school children with undiagnosed vision problems, has already impacted over 2000 schools in more than 120 cities.
The emotionally compelling campaign highlights the struggles of children who suffer in silence due to poor eyesight. One particular film in the campaign portrays a young student's daily battle in school—struggling to see the blackboard, leaning closer to their notebook, and feeling embarrassment when unable to keep up with classmates. This story resonates with the millions of children across India facing similar issues.
Ms. Sheena Kapoor, Head of Marketing, Corporate Communications & CSR at ICICI Lombard, shared, "Every year, 'Caring Hands' gives us moments that touch our hearts and get etched in our memories. Given that this is a 100% employee volunteering initiative, it has provided not only a sense of pride and gratification for our employees but we have also impacted over 5 lakh children. They come back with stories that are moving - of a child's joy at seeing the world clearly for the first time, of a future that suddenly looks brighter. Caring Hands, is more than just an eye check-up camps; it's about bringing invisible struggles to light. The story of one child struggling to see the blackboard represents millions across India. Through this film, we hope to spark a larger conversation on children's eye health and inspire meaningful change in this often-overlooked area."
What sets 'Caring Hands' apart is its unique employee-volunteering model, where ICICI Lombard's staff takes full ownership of the initiative. Volunteers work directly with schools, collaborate with ophthalmologists, and ensure children receive the spectacles they need, turning corporate social responsibility into a personal commitment.
The campaign's impact has been substantial:
- Over 500,000 children tested across 2000+ schools in more than 120 cities
- More than 50,000 spectacles provided to children in need
- 100% employee volunteering initiative demonstrating corporate India's commitment to social change
Through 'Caring Hands', ICICI Lombard continues to demonstrate how corporate initiatives can create lasting change, addressing a critical healthcare challenge affecting millions of children in India.