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Eyeglasses Collection
An annual eyewear recycling program each spring that helps make eyecare more accessible to those in need
Collected eyewear (frames, prescription and non-prescription glasses, sunglasses, etc.) are delivered to the Lions Eye Bank of the Northeast and then sent to the Lions Club International to be cleaned and packaged for people around the world.
The eyeglasses collection takes place annually in the spring during the annual nationwide Campus Race to Zero Waste competition.
Since 2014, the University has collected and donated nearly 15,000 pairs of glasses.
How the program works
Glasses can be donated through a general collection or by participating in a friendly competition among departments.
General collection
Throughout the month of March, unwanted glasses can be collected for donation by mail or by drop off to the general collection bin.
Use intercampus mail: Place glasses in any box or envelope and send them through the intramural mail program.
University Mail Services
Box 270001
Rochester, NY 14627-0001
Glasses can also be dropped off in the general collection box at Flaum Eye Institute, located in the Medical Center, G-3070 (by the purple elevators)
Annual departmental competition
With the friendly competition of the Campus Race to Zero Waste in mind, we hold an annual departmental competition as part of the collection event. In addition to general donations, departments across the University community can compete for “Most pairs of glasses collected” and “Most eye-catching box.” If you choose to decorate your box, a panel of judges from the Lions Eye Bank will vote on the one they consider to be the most attractive, or eye-catching.
Competitors, be sure to promote the program within your department and place your collection box in a central location. All boxes will be picked up from your department in early April.
The winning two departments will be announced in late April and will receive a certificate from the Lions Eye Bank as well as a prize: your choice of a lunch or breakfast party. More importantly, you’ll have bragging rights!
We appreciate your care and effort. Your participation makes a difference for those needing glasses and helps to reduce waste!
