Giving Your Used Eyewear a New Life
A message from the WPC Earthcare Team
Do you have a drawerful of outdated prescription glasses that you do not want to throw out? There are several local ways to donate your glasses and give them new life to someone who is in need. Donating your old glasses can transform lives—helping people with vision impairment see the classroom board, enabling adults to work productively, and improving quality of life for families around the world.
Not only does donating eyeglasses help millions of people see better, but removing eyewear from the waste stream also benefits the environment by preventing trash debris from entering waterways and oceans and reducing harm to marine life.
Local Opportunities to Donate
Find a place or organization that sponsors a collection. Here are some options:
Lions Clubs International
This organization has one of the most widely recognized eyewear collection programs. Since 1917, Lions Clubs have collected millions of pairs of glasses for reuse and recycling. They maintain collection boxes at libraries, schools, and optical shops, and also offer mail-in donation options. Both the James City and Gloucester County branches participate in the program. You can also check with eye physicians, clinic offices, and local businesses whose members belong to Lions Clubs.
VSP Vision — Eyes of Hope
A program of VSP Global, Eyes of Hope provides vision care and eyewear to underserved communities worldwide. Donations can be made through affiliated clinics and special events.
This directory lists doctors and eyewear companies that participate in the Eyes of Hope program. VSP also maintains a strong commitment to environmental sustainability through recycling initiatives and the development of environmentally conscious eyewear products.
Goodwill Stores
Many Goodwill locations accept eyeglass donations. Check with each store regarding what types and conditions of eyewear they are able to accept.
- Goodwill Store – Williamsburg
1310 Richmond Rd. (next to Staples)
(757) 941-3140 - Goodwill Store – James City County
4501 News Rd. (across from Target)
(757) 356-4300
Optometrists and Eye Doctors
Ask your eye care provider whether they participate in or host eyeglass recycling drives. Be sure to check with each organization about the condition requirements for donated eyewear.
Tax Benefits of Donating Eyeglasses
Many nonprofits provide receipts for tax deduction purposes. Keep your records, and consult a tax professional regarding eligibility.
