Tyler nonprofits PATH and The Lighthouse announced the rejuvenation of the Saving Sight program, which provides free eye exams, eyeglasses and other resources to people who need them. Pictured here are representatives from several of the participating organizations including PATH, The Lighthouse, the Tyler Lions Club, Dr. Gene Bennett’s office and Wal-Mart Vision Center. Courtesy

Tyler nonprofits PATH and The Lighthouse have announced the rejuvenation of a community partnership that provides free eye exams, eyeglasses and other resources to people who need them.

The Saving Sight program, which began in 2011, had lost funding and could no longer serve people after its main revenue source, The Lighthouse’s benefit golf tournament, saw a decrease in funding.

Late last year, however, The Lighthouse committed $40,000 to the program as a line item in its budget. Alicia Lansford, The Lighthouse’s client services director, said the organization’s commitment to the program is long-term.

That funding, along with the support from a local optometrist, businesses and a New Jersey-nonprofit, all helped reinvigorate the program that provides help with eye exams and prescription glasses.

When someone comes to the PATH offices and meets with a caseworker, they have the opportunity to receive a voucher for a free basic or comprehensive eye exam (whichever is needed) and, if necessary, a voucher for prescription glasses.

The exams take place at Dr. Gene Bennett’s office, and a prescription for glasses can be filled at EyeMart Express or one of three Wal-Mart Vision Centers in town.

The funding from The Lighthouse and New Eyes for the Needy, out of New Jersey, help pay for the eye exams, which Bennett provides at a reduced rate and the prescription glasses.

“We’re passionate about serving the needs of the people in this community and passionate about doing it in a collaborative way,” PATH Executive Director Greg Grubb said Wednesday.

PATH Programs Manager Andrea Wilson said the program provided almost 50 glasses and 38 eye exams in December.

The Tyler Lions Club participates in the program by providing eye screenings at various events.

Beyond the financial support, The Lighthouse also is available to provide services to people who are visually impaired even after they receive corrective lenses.

Though the continued support of these organizations has breathed new life into this program, more can be done, organizers said.

The Saving Sight program could use donations of money and reading glasses, as well as more eye doctors who are willing to partner by providing eye exams to PATH clients at a reduced rate.

The program is open to anyone with need who lacks vision insurance. For more information, call 903-597-7284 and ask for Andrea Wilson or press ext. 180, or email andrea_wilson@PATHhelps.org. 

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