Gift from the Claude Worthington Benedum Foundation continues the work done by the Appalachian Vision Outreach Program

MORGANTOWN, W.Va. – The Claude Worthington Benedum Foundation has awarded $100,000.00 to the Appalachian Vision Outreach Program (AVOP) of the West Virginia University Eye Institute.  This award will provide vision exams and glasses to underserved areas of West Virginia.

The continued support from The Claude Worthington Benedum Foundation has allowed West Virginias needed eye care that was out of reach before this grant. Because of their contribution and the additional support of private donors, the AVOP team, consisting of a physician and support staff, will travel around the state providing adult vision screening exams, general clinics, sub-specialty clinics, prescription eye glasses and education to those who do not have access to regular eye care and are not able to travel to the Eye Institute due to lack of transportation or other barriers.

AVOP has built a strong community with the WV Free Health Clinics around the state, which partner in scheduling clinics for the targeted population.   West Virginia University works with the WV Lions Clubs to further assist West Virginians.

“The Benedum Foundation along with our other partners have created an opportunity for struggling West Virginians to receive needed eye care, that in some cases has led to sight saving measures.” said Rebecca Coakley, MA,CLVT, Director of Outreach at the West Virginia University Eye Institute.