Homeless man in Scarborough receives free eye exam and glasses through charity program, restoring his vision after five years.
Miroslav, a man in his 50s experiencing homelessness, is one individual who has benefited from this initiative. He had suffered from impaired vision for five years.
Miroslav visited The Rainbow Centre, a local charity, where he received an eye test. The examination revealed his need for glasses, which he obtained free of charge through the program.
With his new glasses, Miroslav can now see clearly, enabling him to recognize faces and interact more effectively with others. Consequently, he feels safer and more connected.
Launched in March 2024, the program provides eye care services at hostels and day centers throughout Yorkshire, specifically targeting individuals experiencing homelessness. Over the initial six months, eighty-five percent of participants required glasses, highlighting the critical need for this service. Plans are underway to establish ten additional clinics in the coming year.
Emma Donnelly of Specsavers emphasizes the rewarding nature of the work, noting the profound impact good vision can have on individuals’ lives. She has witnessed this transformative effect directly.
Hannah Telfer, CEO of the charity, highlights the program’s ability to instill hope and provide dignity to a population that is often overlooked.
The partnership between Specsavers and the charity spans five years, with a shared commitment to improving healthcare access for homeless individuals.