Essilor renews partnership with Special Olympics Lions Club International program

Dallas-Essilor of America Inc. has announced a 3-year extension of Essilor International’s partnership with the Special Olympics Lions Club International Opening Eyes program. The program is dedicated to providing eye care for people with intellectual disabilities. Essilor is the official global supplier of ophthalmic lenses to Opening Eyes, and it also supports the program by participating in screenings, education on healthy vision, and eye examinations.

“Essilor International is dedicated to enhancing the Special Olympics experience for all participants and believes strongly that a pair of lenses is the best way to improve sight while preserving the integrity, health and safety of the eye,” said John Carrier, Essilor of America Inc. president. “Our partnership with the Opening Eyes program crosses all frontiers, cultures, and social conditions in an effort to bring people together in a unique spirit of solidarity and generosity-one pair of glasses at a time.”

Athletes, through the Opening Eyes program, are able to experience easy-to-wear eyeglasses and feel the functionality and comfort first hand, whether it is during regular wear or sports activities, according to the organization.

Research has shown that among Special Olympics athletes, 68% have not had an eye examination in 3 years, 37% are in need of eyeglasses and 18% wear clinically incorrect eyeglasses.

Essilor has supplied approximately 30,000 corrective lenses over the past 3 years for Special Olympics athletes who require visual correction. Essilor is often able to provide eyewear onsite during athletic events.

For additional information about The Special Olympics-Lions Clubs International Opening Eyes program, please visit www.lionsclubs.org or www.specialolympics.org.