Do you know of any charities that accept old eye glasses?
Jessica, Vancouver
Donating your old glasses is an excellent idea.
One recycling option is a non-profit called OneSight. Visit their website to use its store locator and find a drop-off location. Sponsoring stores include LensCrafters and Pearle Vision. You could also ask at your local optometrist.
For more than two decades, OneSight has collected and distributed eyewear to those in need all over the world. Its charitable efforts have provided free vision care and eyewear to more than eight million people. And in some countries, a pair of eyewear costs more than a month’s salary, so your old pair will mean a lot.
Lions Clubs International also collects millions of eyeglasses each year — one of its most popular activities. It costs less than a dollar to provide a pair of recycled eyeglasses, which can change someone’s life. Check out the Canadian Lions Eyeglass Recycling Centre (CLERC) or visit www.clerc.ca. The recycling service is free of charge, and you can find collection boxes at retailers like Wal-Mart, Superstore and Zellers.
The CLERC also accepts donated hearing aids, soft eyeglass cases, safety glasses and sunglasses. Don’t forget that adult and children’s glasses are accepted by most programs, too.
Lindsay Coulter gives you the straight goods on living green. Send your questions to queenofgreen@metronews.ca. For more great tips, visit The David Suzuki Foundation at davidsuzuki.org.
