Free Eye Exams

October 15 - 17, 2026
Salvation Army
Harrisburg, PA

It's that time again!

The POA will be providing no-cost eye exams for the Harrisburg community with assistance from VSP® Eyes of Hope® and the Salvation Army Harrisburg Capital City Region. In years past, this event has been extremely well-received and beneficial for the underserved area. The two-day clinic has been covered by local news stations and attended by influential legislators.

Event Details

Dates: Friday, October 16, and Saturday, October 17

Time: 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Location: Salvation Army Building, 506 S. 29th Street, Harrisburg

On Friday, services will be focused on the senior population. On Saturday, pediatric patients up to age 18 will be served. If appointments remain available, the program will be opened to the broader community. Eligibility screening and appointment scheduling will be coordinated by Salvation Army staff. The event itself will be managed by VSP staff, volunteer doctors, and their teams. This is where POA members can make a meaningful difference.

An Opportunity to Fulfill Our Mission

The POA's Vision Statement is:

"To create access to high-quality eye health and vision care for all citizens of Pennsylvania."

This event provides a unique opportunity to put that vision into action. We encourage all members to volunteer their time and expertise.

Please register by September 11 so we can begin scheduling patients and finalizing event logistics.

Volunteer Opportunities

We are seeking volunteer doctors and staff members for one or more time slots on either or both days. VSP will provide:

  • fully equipped examination lanes,
  • an on-site laboratory,
  • lenses and frame selection, and
  • prescription eyewear for patients who need glasses

Our goal is to have at least five doctors per session. We will have 3 lanes inside the building and one on the mobile unit, which will allow for one additional doctor to float.

Clinical Information

Please note that dilated examinations will not be performed routinely for every patient due to the nature and volume of the event. However, you may perform dilation when clinically indicated during the examination.

Staff and Optician Support Needed

We encourage each participating doctor to bring at least one staff member. Volunteer staff will assist with:

  • patient intake,
  • pre-testing and screening,
  • frame selection and fitting, and
  • general patient support

We also welcome volunteer opticians to help with frame selection, adjustments, and dispensing services.

Bilingual Volunteers Encouraged
We especially encourage bilingual doctors and staff to participate. Our patients come from many backgrounds and communities, and your support helps ensure everyone receives quality care in a welcoming environment. Our bilingual volunteers have played an invaluable role in helping patients feel comfortable while assisting with paperwork, examinations, and frame selection.

 

Thank You

On behalf of the POA, thank you for considering this opportunity to serve children, seniors, and adults in our community who might not otherwise have access to a comprehensive eye examination.

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