By Jean Gajano | Executive Director
Since our last report in December, New Eyes has been able to help 50 more Kentuckians in financial need with new prescription eyeglasses. These glasses were made possible by donations made through GlobalGiving, bringing the total of Kentucky residents assisted by GlobalGiving donations to 207 (91 women; 83 men; and 33 children).
New Eyes worked with 18 different social service agencies and health advocates located in Kentucky, assisting residents in obtaining new glasses and clear vision through our program. Of the Kentuckians helped, 33% were senior citizens or disabled individuals on traditional Medicare, which covers eye exams, but not eyeglasses. Sixty-five were from working poor families receiving Medicaid which also covers eye exams, but not eyeglasses in Kentucky (with children receiving one pair every 12 months, leaving them with no recourse if their prescriptions change or glasses break). The remaining 2% had no insurance and had received free eye exams from a local optometrist.
New Eyes fills the gap that Medicare and Medicaid (and no insurance coverage) leave behind by providing those most in need with new eyeglasses. These individuals helped through GlobalGiving donations give them the clear vision they need to see the blackboard or participate in recess; to read a bus schedule or complete a job application; and to correctly read a prescription label or avoid falling obstacles. The impact is deep and long lasting.
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