Alabama’s governor said Monday that his Black Belt Commission has “measurably improved people’s lives.”

He was in Selma at the public library speaking on behalf of the Commission’s eye care program.

According to a press release issued by Riley’s office, more than 12,000 children have received free vision screening and with the help of Sight Savers of Alabama, all of those who failed their screenings were provided follow up screenings.

Along with the 12,000 screenings, the BBAC also provided vision screenings to 12,088 children and then 1,569 received follow-up screenings and glasses.

“What we’ve done with these screenings have been absolutely amazing,” Riley said.

More over, 269 of those screened had the opportunity to receive treatment that literally saved their vision.

Collin McDaniel is an example of that.

McDaniel is a six-year-old who had a degenerative eye disorder corrected and fixed thanks to the efforts of the BBAC.

Riley also pointed out that over 3,000 adults have been through and had free eye screenings. Of those that were screened, 1,200 of them received follow-up eye care.

This is an example of how government can work for us in a positive way.

For those who don’t see good things happening in the Black Belt, maybe you should have your eyes checked.