(PRESS RELEASE) GOLDEN, CO — The extraordinary events of the past several months, both the COVID-19 pandemic as well as the incidents of racial injustice and protests have affected us worldwide. The mission of Optometry Giving Sight is global and focused on closing the gap of vision care inequity. We join with the chorus of voices of our optical industry friends who have spoken out against racism and inequality.
Optometry Giving Sight was founded on the principle of bringing eye care to underserved communities, most often facing economic inequities. We recognize the same injustices are found in underserved communities, particularly communities of color right here in the U.S. and Canada.
With our dedication to Giving Sight and Hope to underserved populations, we want to help give voice to the racial and eye care inequities that exist in communities within our own continent.
In response to COVID-19 and in solidarity with the recent protests against racism, Optometry Giving Sight is making available a COVID-19 Relief Fund for fellow eye care nonprofits/charities that provide services within the United States and Canada. The funding will award small grant support for any one or more of the following considerations:
- To provide eye exams and low or no-cost glasses to individuals in underserved communities
- Special project funding that helps build sustainable vision care efforts
- Provide diversity and inclusion training to staff, volunteers and board members
There is $50,000 available with a max of $5,000 per grant. Applying organizations must have a 501(c)(3) or Canadian Registered Charity status. Interested organizations can submit an electronic application found here by July 31. Hard copies will not be accepted due to remote working conditions.
Questions regarding USA grant requests should be sent to: usa@givingsight.org.
Questions regarding Canadian grant requests should be sent to canada@givingsight.org .
To learn more about Optometry Giving Sight please visit our website at givingsight.org