Trachoma is the world’s leading cause of infectious blindness. It is preventable, but if left untreated, can lead to permanent blindness. Australia is the only developed country that still has trachoma. It primarily affects young Aboriginal Australians. Trachoma spreads by personal contact (via hands, clothing, towels, or bedding), or by flies in contact with infected discharge from the nose or eyes of children’s faces. It is mainly caused by unhygienic living conditions.

EndTrachoma, a Rotary Districts of Australia project initiated by Rotary Melbourne, is working with Aboriginal communities affected by or at risk of trachoma infection. City Rotary is supporting EndTrachoma by supplying 40 toiletry kits for Aboriginal children and their families, with the goal of educating the children on appropriate hygiene to prevent trachoma infection.

Opportunities to Get Involved

Volunteers are needed to:

• Sew drawstring toiletry bags (materials, pattern and instructions provided);
• Donate items or funds for toiletry supplies to fill the bags;
• Assist/source assistance in transporting the bags to Aboriginal communities.

Primary Contact: Ros Marshall