For over 15 summers, OneSight has traveled to Fishkill, NY with the Fresh Air Fund to serve children in need. As kids and counselors flock to Camp Mariah to soak up some sun and fun summer experiences, OneSight’s complete optical shop on wheels, “Eyeleen,” prepares for another week of eye exams.
The 40-foot Vision Van is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities to take patients through the entire clinic process – from vision screening to manufacturing their glasses. The van generates enough power to fuel all equipment and lighting onboard, provides pre-test, two full examination lanes, frame selection as well as finish manufacturing capability. It’s staffed by volunteer optometrists who donate their time and expertise throughout the summer to keep our clinic up and running.
A Look Back At Our Work In Fishkill
As campers progressed through the clinic’s various stations to receive comprehensive eye screenings, many congregated at the last stop to pick out their new frames. Choosing his new pair, 11-year-old Robert was grateful to have received a much-needed updated prescription.
“I could make out shapes, but not details,” he said. “I couldn’t recognize anyone unless they were five feet away. If OneSight wasn’t here, I would still be stuck with the same glasses I’ve had for four years.” Empowered by his newfound clear sight, Robert shared his dreams of one day becoming a college basketball player.
It’s stories like Robert’s that have made each and every year in Fishkill one to remember. Many of the patients we serve at our Fishkill clinic arrive not knowing that they have vision problems, and leave seeing more clearly than they ever have before. In the 15 years since we started holding annual clinics in Fishkill, we’ve been able to serve more than 30,000 campers and counselors alike. That’s 30,000 people that will return to the classroom this fall with a newfound confidence and the ability to learn up to 2x as much as they were able to before.
Together, We’re Helping New York See
None of this work would be possible without our partners at The Fresh Air Fund. Year after year, they’ve stepped up to help us make this clinic possible and are the reason we’ve been able to continually achieve such success. They’re a nonprofit dedicated to providing summer experiences to New York City’s underserved communities, serving students from all five boroughs in the area.
“We are proud to partner with The Fresh Air Fund year after year to make a lasting difference in children’s lives through clear sight. This cause is not just about providing glasses; it’s about the impact of clear sight on improving a child’s ability to learn and therefore their potential and future success.” – KT Overbey, OneSight President and Executive Director
This partnership gives children from New York City’s low-income communities the chance to experience the outdoors in Fishkill, New York—and see it more clearly while they’re at it.
A pair of prescription glasses can transform a child’s life forever. Give the gift of sight by donating $30 to provide a free pair of glasses and an eye exam to someone in need.
