ST. LOUIS, Mo.—The American Optometric Association (AOA) and Optometry Cares—The AOA Foundation are seeking applications for the eleventh annual Healthy Eyes Healthy People State Association Grants which benefit community outreach projects that educate the public and allied groups on the importance of vision care. All state optometric associations are encouraged to apply, as well as optometrists, community groups and faculty from schools and colleges of optometry through their state optometric association.

While previous programs linked grants to the federally defined Healthy People 2020 objectives, this year’s grants will focus directly on addressing the AOA’s proposed children’s vision objective: Increase the proportion of children aged 18 years and under who have received an eye exam by an optometrist over the next 12 months.

The 2014 grants are made possible through a grant from Luxottica. Each grant is worth up to $5,000. Projects reaching multiple states may be considered for a larger grant. A completed application form and letters of support from the respective state optometric association must be submitted by Feb. 28, 2014.