News & Stories

Today is WORLD SIGHT DAY and an opportunity to bring awareness to the importance of eye care. It is also a day for us to celebrate our new partners, and the opening of a new on-site clinic, here at the DI.

Thanks to the generosity of i Gift Sight (IGS), we’re breaking down barriers for those who might not have access to eye testing and eyeglasses – at no cost – whether they have vision coverage or not.

This initiative was spearheaded by Aly Bandali, President of IGS, and powered by local optometrists, Dr. Aminder Gill and Dr. Adam Rahemtulla, who are volunteering their time and expertise. The first clinic, held on-site at the DI September 14, treated 14 clients who had previously been unable to get help, due to lack of coverage.

The response was “life-changing”. For some, it was their first eye exam. For others like Freddy – it had been a while. “I’m excited to have glasses again and excited to see,” he said. Feedback like this (and there was so much more) underscores the impact this new program will have on the people we serve – their health, safety and dignity.

“We will continue to build capacity, and as word spreads, we should be able to help up to 40 people each time,” says Aly Bandali, President of IGS.

The next clinic will take place in November.