Barbudans aged 40 and over who need reading glasses will soon have an opportunity to receive a pair free of charge as the Prime Minister’s Vision Initiative expands to the sister isle.

The Ministry of Health has announced that the programme will operate from the Barbuda Community Centre in Codrington from September 14 to 18.

Glasses will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis, with residents encouraged to take advantage of the opportunity while supplies last.

The initiative is being carried out through a partnership between the Government of Antigua and Barbuda and RestoringVision, a nonprofit organisation dedicated to providing vision support to people who may not be able to afford corrective eyewear.

Hundreds of residents in Antigua have already benefited from the programme, and health officials say its expansion to Barbuda reflects the Government’s commitment to ensuring that services available on Antigua are also accessible to residents of the sister isle.

A Ministry of Health spokesperson said the partnership is particularly important for people who cannot easily access an eye specialist or meet the cost of eyeglasses.

“We are pleased to collaborate with RestoringVision to bring the benefits of free eyeglasses to those who are less able to see an eye specialist and to pay for glasses, which are often quite expensive and beyond the capacity of many in society to afford,” the spokesperson said.

RestoringVision maintains that improved eyesight can have a far-reaching impact on people’s daily lives, including their ability to work, learn and remain independent.

“By restoring sight, we are unlocking human potential, improving health, advancing education and strengthening livelihoods,” the organisation said.

The World Health Organization has identified the provision of eyeglasses as one of the most cost-effective healthcare interventions, particularly because clearer vision can significantly improve a person’s productivity and quality of life.