F ree or discounted vision care is available for people with limited incomes. Key resources...

EyeCare America's Senior Eye-Care Program. Coordinated by the American Academy of Ophthalmology, this program provides free medical eye care to all US citizens, age 65 and older, who have not seen an ophthalmologist in three or more years and who don't have coverage through an HMO or the Veterans Administration. The program also offers a diabetes and glaucoma eye-care program. 800-222-3937, www.eyecareamerica.org.

Knights Templar Eye Foundation. This charitable foundation provides financial assistance for eye care to people under age 65 who don't qualify for Medicaid or who have private insurance but can't afford to pay for care. 847-490-3838, www.knightstemplar.org/ktef. Knights Templar also cosponsors EyeCare America's program.

Mission Cataract USA. Coordinated by the Volunteer Eye Surgeons' Association, this program provides free cataract surgery to people of all ages who don't have Medicare, Medicaid or private insurance and have no other means to pay. 800-343-7265, www.missioncataractusa.org.

Vision USA. Coordinated by the American Optometric Association (AOA), Vision USA provides free eye-care services to uninsured and low-income workers and their families who have no means of obtaining care. 800-766-4466, www.aoa.org (click on "AOA Public Programs").

New Eyes for the Needy. This international program distributes new prescription eyeglasses to people with limited incomes. 973-376-4903, www.neweyesfortheneedy.org.

Local Lions Clubs. This is a top referral resource for eye-care and eyeglasses programs that are available in your area. Programs and eligibility requirements vary by community. Call your local Lions Club chapter or contact Lions Clubs International, 800-747-4448, www.lionsclubs.org.

"Give the Gift of Sight" program. Sponsored by Luxottica Retail and in partnership with Lions Clubs International, this program provides free screening and glasses to people who can't afford them. 513-765-6000, www.givethegiftofsight.com, or contact LensCrafters. To find a nearby store, call 800-541-5367 or visit www.lenscrafters.com.