From Vision to Reality: Drive Collects 160 Pairs of Eyeglasses

A local effort to collect eyeglasses will soon help people who live in impoverished parts of the world see better.

The month-long drive to benefit Lions In Sight resulted in 160 pairs of glasses donated to the cause. That’s about five pairs of glasses collected each day during March.

Grant Conrad headed the collection effort, handing over the specs to Henry McAdams of the La Mesa Lions Club during a presentation Friday at

Conrad was pleased—and surprised—by the outcome. He’d expected to bring in about 45 to 50 pairs of glasses with his inaugural effort to benefit the Lion’s program. To get the word out, he says he posted fliers around town, worked with St. John of the Cross School, and had an event listing posted on Lemon Grove Patch that served as a daily reminder to donate.

The Lions In Sight program will distribute the glasses through vision clinics in developing nations worldwide. The drive’s success by bringing in three times as many pairs of glasses as anticipated will help even more people in countries were access to health care and medical services is severely limited, McAdams says.

The experience to those donating was fulfilling, as well—and a little difficult for a few. Eyeglasses, which can be worn for years, are much more than an accessory. They can become a very personal item.

“If was emotional for some people to let go of the glasses,” Conrad said. “But they knew they would be used in a great way.”

McAdams says the 62 members of the La Mesa chapter of the service organization have collected 33,000 pairs of glasses in the seven years he’s been the program’s chair.

Lions In Sight brings eye care and glasses—both corrective lenses and basic, protective sunglasses—to people in need. Beyond the free vision clinics and services, the organization offers those with sight impairments the opportunity to see their world more clearly.

Conrad Lemon Grove Mortuary is a year-round collection point. Spare specs can be dropped off in the lobby at the mortuary, 7387 Broadway, from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. The glasses must be in good condition, and not in need of any repairs. Prescription glasses and sunglasses are welcome.

For information about Lions In Sight, visit the La Mesa Lion’s Club web site, or email the group at LaMesaLions@gmail.com.