DALLAS, TEXAS—Essilor Vision Foundation (EVF) announced that it is committing $250,000 to support eye doctors in their efforts to prioritize charitable patients who need vision care through its new Changing Life through Lenses (CLTL) Relief Fund. The CLTL Relief Fund is designed to kick-start and expand the philanthropic efforts of eye doctors around the U.S. ODs who enroll and provide vision services to eligible charitable patients can receive funds of up to $1,500. Due to several factors over the past year, there are currently many people who need help from the optical industry, EVF noted.

While EVF has programs and resources for charitable ODs, the foundation depends on eye doctors to provide vision care to those who cannot afford it.  To assist ODs who want to give back in their communities, EVF is paying it forward by offering funding to help them with their charitable endeavors. Participating ODs receive free glasses for their patients through EVF’s Changing Life through Lenses program, but now every doctor who enrolls in the CLTL Relief Fund can receive up to $1,500.

“When an eye doctor takes the optometric oath, that doctor promises to put others’ needs above their own, and to see that no one lacks for proper care,” said Dr. Millicent Knight, senior vice president, customer development group, Essilor of America. “Participating in the CLTL Relief Fund helps ODs honor that oath and make a difference in their communities.”

To qualify for funding, ODs must register for Changing Life through Lenses or already have a Changing Life through Lenses account. This program provides free lenses, frames and lab services when an eye doctor gives a vision exam to an eligible patient who otherwise would not be able to get vision care. The next steps are:

  • Enroll in the CLTL Relief Fund, a limited time campaign available June 1 through December 31.
  • Serve two patients starting June 1, 2021, to get $150.
  • Serve 20 or more patients by December 31, 2021, to get $1,500.
  • Visit Changing Life through Lenses (CLTL) Relief Fund to enroll today.
“Many people are in greater need than ever before,” explained Becky Palm, EVF president and executive director. “EVF is deeply appreciative of the charitable eye doctors and nonprofits that partner with us to provide vision services to patients in underserved areas. The CLTL Relief Fund is our way of paying it forward and championing those who give back in their communities.”

Changing Life through Lenses is made possible thanks to Essilor of America, which provides in-kind donations of complete pairs of glasses to EVF.

Optometrists who wish to enroll in the Changing Life Through Lenses program must complete a Relief campaign survey and submit a W-9 tax form before Jan. 31, 2022.