The program has three primary components.
1. Eye Exam and Glasses. An eye exam (and glasses if needed) is provided for an individual who is unemployed, needs glasses to get a job or to be self sufficient, and does not have other vision insurance or benefits. Children in households that can demonstrate that the cost of an eye exam or glasses presents a financial hardship may also qualify if they need glasses to perform well in school. Applicants must be nominated by a SIYE patient or staff member. In the event that no individuals have been nominated during a given month, gift certificates for exams may be donated for charitable auctions and causes. The goal is to serve one individual per month.
To nominate someone for this benefit, send an email to: starsrosedale@gmail.com that provides their contact information and a brief description as to why you think they are a good candidate.
2. Glasses Donations to Nonprofits in Austin and Piedras Negras, Mexico: Your old glasses provide an affordable alternative to people who cannot afford a new pair of glasses. The Stars In Your Eyes staff will refurbish and label them with the correct Rx. In addition to local donations, Dr. Schottman's consulting work in Piedras Negras helps restock their optical (over 800 pairs of glasses) to benefit people who may never have had their vision examined.
3. Vision Training Scholarships: Share the Sight sliding fee scholarships are awarded to 2 to 4 patients per year so they can benefit from Vision Training (VT). VT can help children and adults who have an eye turn, lazy eye, or who experience school or work difficulties because of poor visual skills. Other conditions that may be helped with VT include Autism, ADHD, Dyslexia and Traumatic Brain injury.
For more information on how scholarship applications are coordinated, please contact the Stars In Your Eyes Vision Training Center at (512) 419-1212.
Dr. Schottman also provides presentations for groups interested in how improvements to vision can improve a person's quality of life. A great book, Fixing My Gaze Book by Sue Barry, is given free to adults who wish to know more about neuroplasticity and improving vision at any age. To schedule a presentation for your group, please contact Dr. Schottman at 419-1212 or austineyedr@gmail.com.
