In 1960, Saving Sight began its journey of restoring vision through charitable vision programs, showing a commitment to community needs and a spirit of generosity. While the delivery of our programs has evolved, our legacy of giving continues to thrive through our mission partners. In 2021, Saving Sight’s board of directors established a board-designated quasi-endowment fund to support grants given to charitable organizations with a similar mission. We are proud to share the impact of grants given to four outstanding organizations in fiscal year 2023-2024: Missouri Lions Eye Mission Foundation, KidSight, Show Me Lions Eyeglass Recycling, and Mid-South Lions Sight and Hearing Service.
KidSight – $41,500
KidSight used this grant in general operating support, allowing the organization to expand its free vision screenings and follow-up services for children statewide. So far this year, KidSight has screened more than 43,000 children, an increase of over 4,000 from the previous year, and referred nearly 3,900 to local eye doctors for full exams. The program now serves 100 Missouri counties, up from 94 last year, and continues to grow. With additional grant support, KidSight also partnered with local eyecare providers and hosted mobile vision clinic days in Boone and Jackson counties, delivering 37 free eye exams and 36 pairs of glasses to students in need.
Missouri Lions Eye Mission Foundation – $16,500
Missouri Lions Eye Mission Foundation utilized this grant to purchase new digital fundus cameras and vision screeners—equipment that allowed them to have two sets of identical equipment for events across the state. So far, the foundation has hosted 21 mission events with 19 more scheduled, enabling greater access to care in every Lions district. The new tools have also inspired a renewed sense of purpose and energy among volunteers, strengthening the reach and impact of Lions Clubs across Missouri.
Show Me Lions Eyeglass Recycling – $2,000
Show Me Lions Eyeglass Recycling used this grant to improve building accessibility and enhance warehouse functionality. Upgrades included restroom grab bars, improved signage, and new shelving to better organize recycled eyeglasses. The center also added essential equipment like a pallet jack and hand truck to support the transport of eyeglass deliveries and shipments. Thousands of bags, printer supplies, and cleaning tools were also purchased. Much of the labor and supplemental materials were donated by volunteers, reflecting the center’s deep roots in community support and service.
Saving Sight’s board of directors remains committed to supporting our mission partners in their efforts to restore vision and improve lives. At their most recent meeting in June 2025, Saving Sight’s board granted the following additional funds for the 2025-2026 fiscal year:
• KidSight – $30,000
• Missouri Lions Eye Mission Foundation – $13,000
• Mid-South Lions Sight and Hearing Service – $9,500
• Show Me Lions Eyeglass Recycling Program – $7,500
The grants provided this year have empowered these organizations to expand their services, enhance their capabilities, and serve more individuals in need. We are proud of the collective impact we have made and look forward to continuing our legacy of changing lives by saving sight for years to come.