Partner with your local LensCrafters store to bring the gift of sight to those in need in your community. During Hometown Day, LensCrafters stores work with local Lions clubs and other community partners to provide free eye exams and eyeglasses to people in need. Since 1993, 177,639 people have been helped during Hometown Day. This year Hometown Day will be held on Tuesday, December 6, 2005.

Several staff at Lions Clubs International volunteered to help during Hometown Day 2004. “It was a very rewarding experience,” said Sandy Mussalam, LCI Ibero- American Department. “The children were from a school in the inner city of Chicago. Most of them were in need of eyeglasses. Some of them spoke Spanish and very little English, and I was able to serve as an interpreter as well.” Mussalam continued, “The store has a lab so the children took their eyeglasses home that day. All the children were happy with their choices, and they looked great.” 

"I very much enjoyed working with all of the children who were in desperate need of glasses,” said Loretta Taylor, LCI Purchasing Department. “Everyone at LensCrafters did a fantastic job. It gets pretty hectic with so many customers coming into the store at once, but the staff coordinated everything like pros.”
 
“We partner with our local Lions throughout the year, and Hometown Day is a great way to build upon our existing relationship,’ said Jennifer Ketola at Store 134 in Ft. Myers, Florida. “Our Lions clubs pool their resources to provide eyeglasses for those in need through the Hamilton County Sight Services Association,” said Lion Arnold Hickman, president of the association and member of the Chattanooga-Brainerd, Tennessee, Lions Club. “During Hometown Day we’ve worked with our local LensCrafters to refer individuals for a free eye exam and glasses.” Kristin Hannah of LensCrafters Store 752 in Chattanooga commented, “The Lions club is always helpful in providing transportation if needed for their referrals for Hometown Day. It is a pleasure to work with them.”

Lions can help by pre-screening children to ensure need for free exams, providing transportation and assisting with the day’s logistics, including refreshments and entertainment.

To get involved in Hometown Day, contact the Gift of Sight Manager or General Manager at the LensCrafters near you in advance. To locate a store, call 1-800-522-LENS or visit www.lenscrafters.com.