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Vision problems, when left untreated, can profoundly affect a person’s quality of life, leading to difficulty reading, working, or even safely navigating daily tasks. Yet, for those without insurance or financial resources, routine eye care and necessary treatments can be difficult to access.

A Lifeline for Patients in Need

Since 2019, the has awarded an annual $5,000 grant to in Downers Grove, Illinois. The grant is specifically designed to help patients who are uninsured or facing financial hardship receive critical vision care and follow-up services.

“The Charitable Fund at Duly is dedicated to improving vision health for community members who may lack the financial means to access necessary care," said Dustin Wilson, Duly Charitable Fund Manager. "We believe that clear vision is not only essential for overall health but also crucial for success in education, employment, and daily life.”

Direct Impact on Patient Care

The grant helps expand services to an additional 40 to 50 patients each year, covering diagnostic testing and follow-up care that may not be included in other financial assistance programs.

“The Duly grant offers us flexibility,” said Jenelle Mallios, O.D., FAAO, Associate Dean of the Chicago College of Optometry. “It complements the University’s Patient Financial Assistance Program, which primarily covers exams, by allowing us to fund additional testing and services essential to comprehensive care.”

Many patients served by the grant are managing chronic conditions like diabetes. Without early detection and treatment, conditions like diabetic retinopathy, the leading cause of blindness in the U.S., can progress undetected.

“Many individuals we serve as part of the grant delay eye care due to financial challenges, which can have serious consequences,” said Allison Foster, M.B.A., Clinic Manager of the Eye Institute.  

Vision Care as Preventive Health

Beyond helping patients see clearly, vision exams can reveal systemic health issues.

“From a One Health perspective, vision care is about far more than eyesight,” Dr. Mallios noted. “The retina is the only place in the body where veins and arteries can be seen without surgery. We can detect conditions like diabetes, autoimmune diseases, and heart disease, and refer patients to specialists.”

Supporting Future Healthcare Providers

The benefits of the Duly grant extend to �77����'s students, too. A larger and more diverse patient base enhances clinical education for optometry students, who gain experience diagnosing and managing a wide range of conditions.

“Duly supports the education of future healthcare professionals because they are the foundation of a healthier future,” Mr. Wilson said. “By investing in their development, we’re building a sustainable pipeline of skilled, compassionate providers.”

Lasting Impact on Patients

To date, the grant has supported vision care for more than 200 patients. Feedback from those served underscores the grant’s life-changing impact:

“I can now see since I was provided glasses at my visit,” shared one patient. “I had never realized how badly I needed glasses until I went for my diabetic eye exam.”

Another patient added, “I was very concerned because I believed I was going blind. The MWU Eye Institute helped me regain peace of mind. My prescription was outdated and likely contributing to my migraines. I’m so grateful.”

Looking Ahead

Both Duly Health and Care and �77���� are optimistic about the future of this partnership.

“The work accomplished through the grant has been incredibly impactful,” said Mr. Wilson. “It’s inspiring to see how the grant has enabled tangible changes.”