30 September 2005
It’s Lions Recycle for Sight Week Again
It’s time to hunt out those lonely old glasses lost in the depths of that bottom drawer. During the week of Monday 10 -
Sunday 16 October, Lions Clubs New Zealand, with the support of OPSM and Visique optometrists, will be celebrating Lions
Recycle for Sight Week. This is New Zealand Lions’ activity to mark the International Lions World Sight Day (October 13)
Lions Clubs are asking New Zealanders to dig out any old prescription or sunglasses and deliver them to their nearest
OPSM store or Visique optometrist.
The glasses are then graded and cleaned at one of two Lions Clubs eyeglass recycling centres and distributed throughout
the Pacific Islands by Volunteer Ophthalmic Services Overseas (VOSO) – a New Zealand wide charity that provides eye
examinations and surgery to South Pacific nations.
Lions Clubs New Zealand, Chief Executive Officer, Ron Lawrence says “We are always so heartened to hear stories about
the difference Lions Recycle for Sight Week makes for many and the great use to which the donated eyewear is put.
“The Recycle for Sight collection in New Zealand goes a long way to restoring stocks at both Lions eyeglass recycling
centres, which do a tremendous job in supporting those in need throughout the Pacific,” says Mr Lawrence.
Last year, over 7000 pairs of glasses were collected during the week, and contributions continue throughout the year,
largely based on the awareness generated during Lions Recycle for Sight Week.
For the month of October, Lions members around the world are running sight-related activities to work towards preventing
blindness and preserving sight.
ENDS