Etisalat donates spectacles

Etisalat Lanka presented over 3,300 pairs of spectacles at a unique Vesak dansala. Etisalat provided 3,342 pairs of spectacles to people unable to afford the services of an optometrist and the cost of lenses.

In partnership with the Non-Governmental Organisation 'So Others May See Inc.' (SOMS), Etisalat conducted the Vesak Dansala, themed 'Bringing Hope, Giving Sight' under Etisalat's Corporate Social Responsibility banner. It was held from May 24-26, at the Etisalat Flagship Store on Galle Road, Colombo 3.

It not only attracted people from Colombo, but also from across the country, including Galle, Pelmadulla, Anuradhapura and Kurunegala. This unique spectacle dansala attracted over 3,400 people over the three days. Free eye screening by optometrists were also conducted.

Director and CEO, Etisalat Lanka, Dumindra Ratnayaka said, "This project helped us identify low-income groups in need of spectacles and assist them. The joy and elation brought about by this project has motivated us to conduct similar projects in the future."

Founder and President of SOMS, Ashanthi Mathai said, "Our vision is to eliminate avoidable blindness in the world.

This is the first time that we partnered a company to conduct a Dansala of this nature, and it was success. We are proud to be a part of this unique initiative and to have served so many people with Etisalat".

Fifteen optometrist stations and 19 optometrists assisted with pre-screening, and oversaw the issue of approximately 900 reading glasses on the spot, while over 100 employees of Etisalat volunteered (per day) to assist in this massive drive.

A spokesman for Etisalat said that custom-made spectacles could be collected from one of the 30 Etisalat franchise locations closet to the patient within a few weeks. "We collected contributions from our staff for this initiative, and they were eager to be a part of this effort. During the three days the Dansala was held we had at least 100 employees representing various departments, each day, to assist with the activities at the premises," said Senior Manager, Brand Marketing - Prepaid, Etisalat, Shameel Bishri.