Serving the blind and visually impaired
Lions are especially dedicated to serving the blind and visually impaired, a commitment made after Helen Keller challenged our members to become her “Knights of the Blind in the Crusade against Darkness” during the 1925 convention in Ohio. According to The World Health Organization, 153 million people have uncorrected refractive errors (near-sightedness, far-sightedness or astigmatism). Most of these vision impairments are quickly diagnosed and easy to treat with corrective lenses.
Still, millions of people in developing nations are pushed deeper into poverty simply because they don't have glasses. They can't learn, because reading is difficult. They can't work to the best of their ability, because they can't see clearly. That is why throughout the year, Lions and other volunteers collect used eyeglasses and deliver them to regional Lions Eyeglass Recycling Centers (LERCs). LERC volunteers clean, sort by prescription strength and package the glasses. Most of the recycled glasses are distributed to people in need in developing countries where they will have the greatest impact.
Still, millions of people in developing nations are pushed deeper into poverty simply because they don't have glasses. They can't learn, because reading is difficult. They can't work to the best of their ability, because they can't see clearly. That is why throughout the year, Lions and other volunteers collect used eyeglasses and deliver them to regional Lions Eyeglass Recycling Centers (LERCs). LERC volunteers clean, sort by prescription strength and package the glasses. Most of the recycled glasses are distributed to people in need in developing countries where they will have the greatest impact.
You can support the cause by dropping off used eyewear at any of our Lions-sponsored collection boxes throughout the community.
The Porterville Breakfast Lions have not only participated in the collection efforts of eyewear but have also teamed with local optometrists to help those struggling in our own community get the eye care and glasses that they might not be able to afford otherwise. Since making the financial commitment to provide assistance in 2006, the club has helped numerous individuals get the medical care and attention that truly changes lives.
