Mobile Eye Clinic Provides Free Exams and Glasses in Kalamazoo

The Salvation Army in Kalamazoo recently partnered with VSP Eyes of Hope, the charitable arm of VSP Vision, to provide free eye exams and prescription glasses to uninsured families and individuals. The two-day event, which is mostly staffed by local doctors who donate their time, was held at the Kalamazoo Corps/Community Center on Burdick Street.

“For those struggling financially, accessing routine care can be difficult,” said Kalamazoo Corps Officer Lieutenant Simon Micula. “Vision is essential — without it, people face barriers to driving, applying for jobs, and completing everyday tasks.”

Mariah is a healthcare worker and says she has been taking a bus to work because she couldn’t afford an exam after her glasses broke four years ago. “I have to have my glasses in order for me to drive anywhere, that's how bad my vision is. Without them, it's just gotten worse and worse.”

“This clinic ensures people can receive the vision care they need without worrying about insurance or cost,” said Clark Jorgensen, VSP Eyes of Hope Community Engagement Manager. “Helping to protect the gift of sight and make a difference in the lives of patients in need is why we do this important work.”

In total the clinic was able to provide exams to more than 130 patients and all but six who were only there for an exam, received prescriptions for a new pair of glasses, including Mariah. “You never know what a person's going through in life or in general and this type of program is helpful to the ones that can't afford it.”

Organizers say they are looking forward to holding another clinic next year in Kalamazoo and hope to recruit more doctors so they can help even more people.