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May 3, 1999
SGI CANADA donates eye glass lenses to Operation Eyesight Universal
Deputy Premier and Crown Investments Corporation Minister Dwain Lingenfelter today presented $22,800 worth of uncut eyeglass lenses to Operation Eyesight Universal, for distribution in the developing world. SGI CANADA is donating the lenses that were salvaged from a loss in Saskatoon.
"SGI CANADA is always looking for ways to give back to the community," Lingenfelter said. "Having such a large supply of uncut eyeglass lenses provided the opportunity for SGI to find a way to put these lenses to use, rather than just dispose of them. Operation Eyesight Universal will ensure these lenses get to the people who need them the most."
"Operation Eyesight Universal is a charitable organization with headquarters in Calgary and is responsible for projects in South Asia, Africa, the Middle East and South America, restoring eyesight to poor people and preventing blindness in children," said Dr. Madhao Thakre, chairperson, Regina Volunteer Committee of Operation Eyesight Universal. "I thank SGI CANADA for the kind donation.
The lenses will help restore eyesight to people who cannot afford to purchase glasses." The lenses were damaged when a fresh water supply ruptured at a Saskatoon ophthalmic lab. Water sprayed over the equipment and onto cardboard boxes full of uncut and individually packaged eyeglass lenses.
Two inspections showed that the damage to the multi-coating on the lenses was negligible, but the lenses could not be sold as new product.
The Lions Club District 5-CE will cover the cost of delivering the lenses to the Calgary office of Operation Eyesight Universal.
"Thanks to Operation Eyesight Universal, tens of thousands of free eyeglasses have been given to people in the third world," Lingenfelter said. "The lenses, donated by SGI CANADA, will continue the tradition of bringing the gift of sight to people who would otherwise have no access to eyeglasses."
For media inquiries only, contact:
Julianne Jack
SGI Communications
Regina
(306) 775-6907
For all other inquiries, call 1-800-667-8015.
For additional information, contact:
Dr. Madhao Thakre
Chairperson, Regina Volunteer Committee
Operation Eyesight Universal
(306) 584-3022
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