2026 eyeglasses collection results
The 2026 eyeglasses collection program collected 1,270 pairs of glasses. Thanks to the contributions of the University community and its participating departments, more people will see better.
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Eyeglasses Collection
An annual eyewear recycling program that helps make eyecare more accessible to those in need
Participate in the annual glasses collection event by donating your unneeded glasses by mail, drop-off, or a departmental competition.
Collected eyewear (frames, prescription and non-prescription glasses, sunglasses, etc.) will be delivered to the Lions Club of Chili, who will distribute the glasses to InterVol for reuse around the world. Glasses not suitable for reuse will be sent to ReSpecs for recycling. Glasses cases are not accepted.
Since 2014, the University has collected and donated over 20,000 pairs of glasses.
How the program works
The 2026 collection has ended. Stay tuned for the next collection in 2027!
Glasses can be donated through a general collection or by participating in a friendly competition among departments.
General collection
Throughout the month-long program, 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)
Who will win?
Annual departmental competition
In addition to general donations, departments across the University community can compete for “Most pairs of glasses collected” and “Most eye-catching box.” A panel of judges from the Lions Club of Chili will vote on the box they consider to be the most attractive, or eye-catching. The winner of each category wins a certificate and a prize for their department.
Registration is now closed