What happens to your eyeglass/hearing aid donations?

The glasses collected locally are processed in New Jersey where the glasses are cleaned and calibrated. Both Lion-sponsored and independent eye-care missions to developing countries then take boxes of glasses which have been calibrated and labeled by prescription to the host country.  Once an on-site eye exam is conducted, the patient is fitted with a pair of glasses which closest meets the required prescription.  Last year Hartford and Litchfield Counties collected nearly 30,000 pairs of prescription glasses.  Non-prescription sunglasses are also collected for use by medical missions performing cataract surgery and to help prevent cataract formation by exposure to ultraviolet rays in geographical areas where this is a primary cause for cataract conditions.
Used hearing aids are collected and refurbished where possible.  The Lions have contacts with hearing technicians who test hearing levels and can provide free hearing aids to those clients in need and who have financial hardship.

The Harwinton Lions Club’s scholarship committee has awarded:

The Bronc Callahan Scholarship to Nathaniel Misluk , who will attend Northwestern Community College. but have not yet decided on a major, but is interested in pursuing a career in wildlife conservation or biology. . WHile in HIgh School at Lewis Mills, he was an active member of many cllubs and organizations.  He was  the head interviewer and editor of the Spartan Scroll Communications Club, which highlights the achievements and stories of students and staff. he also attend frequent class council meetings to help officers plan numerous events and activities throughout the year. Finally, he was very active within his community, at LSM through Mills Club, and outside of school through Boy Scouts. he is a member of Troop 75 in Terryville, and last year, he achieved the rank of Eagle Scout. For his Eagle Project, he completed the Mallard Marsh boardwalk by adding 150 feet to an already existing section of boardwalk, to improve the trail's accessibility for visitors. Through his troop, he have also gotten the opportunity to go on many outdoor adventures. In 2021, he embarked on a 12-day backpacking trek through the Rocky Mountains at Philmont Scout Ranch in New Mexico. The following year, he canoed the entire Allagash River through the backwoods of Maine, and most recently, he also climbed Mount Washington & the Franconia Ridge.

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