Gift of Sight has become a beacon of hope and generosity in the community. Held at the Western Health Center, this annual event is now in its 11th year, continuing its mission to provide essential eye care services to those in need.

Last year marked a significant milestone as the event served its 2000th patient. This year, the event provided free glasses and comprehensive eye exams to 210 uninsured and underinsured patients.

For those who met the qualifications for care, the Community Eye Care Service event was a rare opportunity to receive professional eye care services, which can be life-changing.

"Eye exams and glasses can be quite costly,” explained Janene Sims, OD, PhD, and CEC director. “When patients must prioritize essentials like medication, housing, or food, eye care often gets left out. However, this program enables us to provide eye care to patients at no cost."

Patients were diagnosed with several conditions, including a retinal detachment, diabetic retinopathy, strabismic amblyopia, convergence insufficiency, retinal dystrophy, color vision and visual field defects and cataracts. Anyone needing emergency care received the necessary referrals.   

“It's an honor to see the difference we can make in people's lives," Sims said.

This initiative's success is made possible by supporting partners like alumni, local businesses, VSP Eyes of Hope, and Rural Area Medical, who understand the importance of improving community health.