300+ member practices are located in affected areas.
(Press Release) KINGWOOD, TX — Independent optometric alliance Vision Source announced that it has raised over $310,000 in 15 days to help optometrists directly affected by Hurricane Harvey and Hurricane Irma. More than 316 Vision Source member practices are located in the areas impacted by recent storms.
Established in 2007 as a resource to provide relief aid for optometrists impacted by catastrophic events, the Vision Source Foundation has provided aid for eyecare clinicians dealing with situations such as hurricanes, tornadoes, floods, death, cancer and stroke.
“Vision Source members should never feel alone. By its very existence, the Vision Source Foundation reminds our members that they belong to a family of independent optometrists ready to support them in times of need,” said Dr. John McCall, president of the Vision Source Foundation and Vision Source senior vice president, vendor relations. “The Foundation is a testament to the power of Vision Source membership and showcases the selfless hearts of our members.”
Over 130 Vision Source member locations faced Hurricane Harvey’s rainfall of 33 trillion gallons of water. While 185 Vision Source practices located in Hurricane Irma’s path withstood top wind speeds of 185 miles per hour. The economic toll of these storms will be felt by 451 independent Vision Source optometrists and the 1,146 staff members.
“In the past few days, the Vision Source Foundation has already begun issuing checks to affected optometrists thanks to generous donations from member optometrists, patients, vendors, and the employees of both Vision Source and Essilor,” said Jim Greenwood, CEO of Vision Source.
“Our hearts go out to all of those marred by Hurricane Harvey and Hurricane Irma, including the nearly 1,600 Vision Source doctors and staff living and working in the afflicted areas,” said Dr. John McCall. “We are proud to support the beautiful demonstration of humanity and kindness currently on display in our nation. Through the Vision Source Foundation, we can truly make a difference in the lives of our colleagues who are recovering from storm damage and loss.”
Donations to the Vision Source Foundation can be made online at https://insight.visionsource.com/VS-Foundation/Donate. Checks must be made payable to the Vision Source Foundation and mailed to:
Vision Source Foundation
ATTN: Sherry Wilson
23824 Highway 59 North
Kingwood, TX 77339