When you get a new eyeglass prescription, even though your old pair of specs will no longer be useful to you they might be useful to someone else. Next time you get new frames, instead of throwing your glasses away donate them to an organization that will give the gift of sight to those who might not otherwise be able to afford it.

Several charity organizations accept your old prescription glasses to help people in the U.S. and in countries around the world see better. Eyeglasses donations provide children ability to do schoolwork, and give adults independence and the ability to read again or to find better work. When you donate your glasses they are sorted by volunteers, who then determine the prescription, clean and re-package the glasses for various organizations that offer free eye care services and dispense glasses to those who need them.

Where to donate:

• Lions Clubs across the U.S. accept donations of prescription eyeglasses. Lions Clubs also operate and have collection sites in Australia, Canada, France, South Africa, Spain and Italy.
• LensCrafters donates eyecare services and accepts prescription glasses which are then distributed through their charitable vision care programs under the Give the Gift of Sight foundation.
• New Jersey based New Eyes for the Needy also accepts glasses via mail.

Further information from Green Options:

Top 15 Charity Search Engines: Donate to Charity for Free

Daily Tip: Clothes Runneth Over

Daily Tip: Free Swap Party!

Donate to Charity When Buying or Selling Your House