Financial Assistance for Eye Exams and Glasses

Access to eye care is important for children’s health, development, and learning. If cost is a barrier, there are programs available that may help cover the cost of eye exams and prescription glasses for children and youth.

Below are programs that provide financial support for eligible families in Wellington-Dufferin-Guelph and across Ontario.

Eye See…Eye Learn® Program

The Eye See…Eye Learn® program encourages parents and caregivers to book a comprehensive eye exam for their child during their kindergarten year.

• The eye exam is covered by Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP).
• Junior and senior kindergarten children who need glasses may receive a complimentary pair of eyeglasses.
• Glasses are donated by Plastic Plus, Modern Optical Canada and the participating optometrist.

Find a participating optometrist near you and book an appointment directly. Participating providers will have Eye See…Eye Learn® listed next to their name.

Sight for Success Vision Program

The Sight for Success Vision Program supports childhood vision health by helping cover the cost of prescription glasses (up to $160).

• Available to children in Grades 1–12
• For families with identified financial need
• Serves children living in Wellington, Dufferin and the City of Guelph

To apply, get more information and a list of providers, visit our Sight for Success page.

Lions Club International

Lions Clubs International may provide financial assistance for prescription eyeglasses.

Support is offered through local Lions Clubs, and availability may vary by community. Families should contact their local Lions Club directly for more information.

Ontario Works

Families receiving assistance through Ontario Works may be eligible for help with vision care expenses for children, including prescription eyeglasses.

Contact your local Ontario Works office for eligibility details and information on available benefits.

Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP)

Families receiving support through the Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP) may be eligible for assistance with vision care costs for children, including prescription eyeglasses.

Contact your local ODSP office for details about coverage and eligibility.

Interim Federal Health Program (IFHP)

The Interim Federal Health Program (IFHP) provides limited, temporary health coverage for:

• resettled refugees
• refugee claimants
• certain other groups not eligible for provincial health insurance

Coverage may include vision care services, depending on eligibility and benefit type.

Non-Insured Health Benefits (NIHB) Program

The Non-Insured Health Benefits Program provides eligible First Nations and Inuit clients with coverage for benefits not available through other insurance plans.

• Vision care benefits are covered according to program policies
• Services must be provided by an NIHB-recognized provider

Details are outlined in the NIHB Vision Care Benefit Policy Framework and Vision Care Benefit List.

Need help finding support?

For help navigating vision care programs or community resources, contact us.