大象传媒

Having a new pair of glasses will improve Juan's life because; Without them I am blind”

In June 2019 Vision Care for Homeless People’s appeal was presented by John Hegley, who, impressed by the warmth of our volunteer opticians on visiting one of our clinics wrote some short poetry pieces to tell the audience about the unique service the clinics give in providing free eye care in a welcoming, friendly environment.  In the appeal we explained that £20 pays for an eye test and £40 pays for glasses. This is an average amount as sometimes people need reading and long distance glasses or tinted glasses which cost more.

With this in mind, the £17,938 raised will have enabled us to provide a service for 300 people, including people like Juan (pictured, with Stephen Butler, one of our volunteer dispensing opticians). Juan is from Columbia. He has not had an eye test in 3 years. He needs glasses to read, use his phone and fill in important forms but broke his last pair 3 months back. Having a new pair of glasses will improve his life.

Or Drew, who has had lots of problems with his right eye since it was split during a fight 2 years ago. He ended up in prison and just before his release his glasses were smashed when another inmate stood on them. He has been sleeping rough since he got out. “Going to an optician isn’t an option for me. I came here and the people were so friendly and helpful and they gave me some new glasses and a case to keep them in. They definitely do the business! I can’t tell you how grateful I am.”

Thank you.

You can find out more about the charity .