How to donate eyeglasses
It’s as easy as grabbing your old glasses and getting them to the right place. There are several U.S. and global nonprofit groups that accept eyeglasses donations.
Some groups accept used glasses while others take only donations of new glasses. Depending on the organization, you may be able to donate:
- Used prescription glasses in good condition
- Non-prescription reading glasses
- New glasses
- Glasses frames
The organization you donate them to will inspect the glasses, determine the prescription, and clean the eyewear so it can be used again. Your old glasses will then get matched to someone who needs them — around the world.
Many donated eyeglasses are used in medical missions to other countries. During these trips, eye doctors and other medical professionals provide free eye care to people with limited access to health resources.
Where to donate old glasses
Wondering where to donate eyeglasses? Donation is easy and convenient. For example, you can:
Donate your glasses at a chain optical store. Some chain optical stores partner with eyeglasses donation organizations, which will deliver the glasses to a nonprofit that accepts and distributes used eyeglasses globally.
Look for a dropbox. Nonprofit organizations work with their local communities to make donation easy, so you may find a donation box at your local library, bank, small business, school or place of worship.
Take your old glasses to a nonprofit thrift retailer. Your local thrift store may accept eyeglasses donations to pass on to another nonprofit overseas.
Donate eyeglasses by mail. Certain organizations allow members to print a free shipping label to send donated glasses to them for free.
Donate wearable eyeglasses
When donating eyeglasses, ask yourself, "Would I be proud to give these glasses to a friend or relative?" Donate only glasses that are in good to excellent condition, and be generous with your contributions.
SEE RELATED: Can you recycle contact lenses?
