Dr. Gary Jassal owner of Eye Plus Optometry, conducts an eye exam at the free event held at the Salvation Army downtown Nanaimo. (Kyle Ireland/NanaimoNewsNOW)

By NanaimoNewsNOW Staff

EYE TEST

‘This is totally life changing:’ free eye exams offered for local homeless, low-income families

Jul 26, 2021 | 6:04 AM

NANAIMO — Dozens of people have some piece of mind and are on their way to seeing a little clearer thanks to a weekend checkup.

Over 30 people took advantage of a free eye exam on Saturday, July 24, offered by the Salvation Army’s New Hope Centre and Eye Plus Optometry.

Joseph Weatherill attended the event and told NanaimoNewsNOW he found out he had a growth over his cornea on one of his eyes.

“This is totally life changing, I have been trying to get my eyes done. I’m on disability and I can’t afford it. These guys have helped me out huge.”

Dr. Gary Jassal was one of two optometrists who volunteered their time for the event. He said it’s a chance to refer patients, direct them on proper care and refer any concerns.

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“It’s not just glasses…we have also seen things that have just been unflagged because some people have no opportunity to get an eye exam.”

Exams and, if necessary, prescription glasses were all offered for free. A selection of refurbished frames were on offer and those needing them will return in a couple of weeks to pick them up.

Dr. Vick Panesar said putting on events like this is something he always wanted to do when he opened his clinic.

“There is coverage sometimes for ministry patients but a lot of times it doesn’t cover the full amount. There’s quite a few people out there who need some sort of a corrective device and this is our chance to help provide that for them.”

Yvonne Burrows the executive director with the Salvation Army said this is the third year for the event and turnout is always strong.

“It’s pretty exciting, this is allowing clientele that normally might not get adequate eye care to actually have it done.”

Exams were through appointment only through the New Hope Centre.

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kyle.ireland@pattisonmedia.com

On Twitter: @nanaimonewsnow