Programs
Sustainability
66 Hospitals in 22 Countries
Our flagship program to strengthen eye hospitals in the developing world comes out of our vision from 1999 recognizing that 90% of the causes of blindness need treatment by a qualified ophthalmologist with a functioning hospital and modern technology. These should be available, accessible, and affordable to all of the people they serve.
In 2000, IEF identified seven eye hospitals in six countries worldwide that had a commitment and capacity for change (now 66 in 22 countries worldwide). Over the years, various clinics and hospitals have accepted our investments and technical assistance for management training, restructuring of processes and procedures, quality and efficiency measures, sustainable financing, revenue generation, and cost reduction.
Onchocerciasis Control
A pioneer in Mectizan® distribution
Onchocerciasis, commonly known as "river blindness," is found mainly in sub-Saharan Africa. Microscopic worms deposited in the body by the bite of the "Black Fly" multiply by the millions. Some migrate to the eyes and cause severe inflammation and blindness. Onchocerciasis affects all ages, but blindness occurs in the 30's and 40's, the most productive years. A small tablet known as Mectizan® (ivermectin) given just once a year kills the microscopic worms and prevents blindness.
With a sub-grant from Helen Keller International’s ENVISION program, 1,140,296 people received Albendazole, and 433,074 school children received Mebendazole and/or Praziquantel in 2017 to treat other worm infestations. The elimination of worms in the body leads to better health, prevents malnutrition, and leads to greater energy.
The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends treating Onchocerciasis with Mectizan® at least once a year for 10 to 15 years.
USAID Child Blindness Program
We continue our commitment to saving sight
The U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) funds programs that help children who cannot see. Grants often kick-start new initiatives and fund programs that focus on eye screenings, providing eye glasses for children, training pediatric eye care personnel, procuring needed diagnostic equipment, and providing low vision aids and services for blind and visually impaired children. Continuing our commitment to saving the sight of children worldwide, IEF is proud to be the Technical Advisor to the USAID Child Blindness Program 2018-2023.
Donate
Blindness can strike every man, women, and child — rich or poor, whether they live in developed or developing countries alike. Help us make a difference by donating today.
$4.25
$4.25 per month will sponsor 1 cataract surgery annually. How much does your cup of coffee cost?
$8.50
$8.50 per month funds eye exams for 30 children annually. A great contribution for less than $10 a month!
$41.75
$41.75 per month sponsors 8 cataract kits for 40 operations annually.
$83.50
$83.50 per month provides transportation for 180 children and their families to clinics for treatment annually.