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New Eyes

According to the CDC, 14 million Americans need eyeglasses, 81% with incomes at or below the federal poverty line. The average price for a pair of glasses in the United States is over $200 according to leading vision insurer VSP, far above the means of millions of Americans. 

Summit Area YMCA has partnered with New Eyes to provide access to vision care and free resources for families to receive free or low-cost eye care and eyeglasses to those who may not have the financial means to afford necessities to better their lives. Having the right corrective lenses makes it possible for children to succeed in school, adults to find employment and function well at work, and for seniors to live safely and independently. Through this initiative, the Y and New Eyes provide the transformative tool of eyeglasses to children and adults facing financial difficulties. Through its U.S. New Eyeglasses Program, New Eyes buys thousands of pairs of glasses every year for those in need so they can have the clear vision. 

“Thank you so much. My glasses are wonderful. I never knew the world is so beautiful. I see things much better and I am very grateful. I have been smiling ever since,” – Charles, New Eyes participant.

“These glasses have assisted me not just to see but to thrive. I need glasses to see data for my work without headaches.” – Leslie, New Eyes participant.

For additional information, please contact Patty Facchinei, Summit Area YMCA – Financial Assistance and Volunteer Coordinator, at patty.facchinei@thesay.org or by filling out the form below.

RESOURCES

>> New Eyes: Free & Low-cost Eye Exams

>> Project BEST (NJ’s Commission for the Blind and Visually Impaired): Locations & Schedules for Free Eye Screenings in NJ

CONTACT US

Learn more about the New Eyes program and eligibility requirements for free eyeglasses by filling out the form below. 

 

 

 

YMCA NEWS

SUMMIT AREA YMCA

BERKELEY HEIGHTS YMCA | SUMMIT YMCA | THE LEARNING CIRCLE YMCA

In 1886, we were founded as the Young Men’s Christian Association, but today, we are The Y; an association that values, and is made stronger by, its diverse people. We stand for youth development, healthy living and social responsibility — For a better us. We are committed to creating equal opportunity for all regardless of gender, age, disability, income, ethnicity, sexual orientation or religious affiliation. We strive to create a welcoming and inclusive culture in which our four core values — responsibility, honesty, caring and respect — are integral to everyday operations.

Each year, as one of the area’s leading 501(c)3 charitable organizations, the Summit Area YMCA serves more than 15,000 individuals with our free and fee-based programs and services in an area spanning the New Jersey communities of Berkeley Heights, Gillette, Millburn, New Providence, Short Hills, Springfield, Stirling and Summit. Our history is rooted in working side-by-side with our neighbors to ensure that everyone has the opportunity to learn, grow and thrive. Through the generosity of our members, donors, and partners, we are able to offer financial assistance for our programs and services to those in need.

Please note that the section of Maple Street closest to the Summit YMCA will be closed from approximately 7 AM to 11 AM on Sunday, May 5, for our Mother’s Day 5K. Please use Cedar Street to access the public lot that is next to our building.