Credit: Eye Gave
Here at the Austinot, we love Austin-based companies that integrate the entrepreneurial spirit with a heart for social good. So when I first found out about Eye Gave, a local eyewear startup trying to eliminate trachoma by 2020, I wanted to learn more.
Eye Gave has partnered with a nonprofit called Sightsavers to make a difference. For every pair of sunglasses purchased, Eye Gave funds a sight-saving operation for one person with trachoma, or enough medicine to prevent up to 22 people from getting the disease.
Trachoma is the most common infectious cause of blindness in the world. It starts off as a bacterial infection that can be easily treated, but over time it can cause blindness if left alone. These statistics are staggering:
- Trachoma impairs the vision of approximately 2.2 million people around the world. Of those, 1.2 million are irreversibly blind.
- 10 percent of the world’s population is at risk of losing sight from trachoma.
- Trachoma results in an estimated $2.9 billion in lost productivity per year.
Because the team at Eye Gave is composed of product developers, rather than eye doctors, it was important to them to partner with a respected organization. “Sightsavers will be doing the important work they specialize in,” lead designed Andrew Sanderson shared in a press release, “performing eye operations, dispensing medication and training locals to examine, treat and support people suffering from trachoma, while we concentrate on building a brand known for its loyalty to charities that do great things.”
Through Oct. 15, 2016, Eye Gave is running a Kickstarter campaign to fund their efforts. From each pledge, $12 will go towards a sight-saving eye operation, antibiotics to treat and stop the spread of trachoma, or training for eye health workers.
You almost want to buy a pair of these sunglasses just to support the cause. But it just so happens that these high-end sunglasses are polarized, well-built and stylish! Definitely the best of both worlds.
To learn more and get involved, watch the video below and go to Kickstarter to participate in the fundraising campaign.
@theAustinot wants to know:
What is your favorite social good company in Austin?
Disclosure: I was sent a pair of Eye Gave sunglasses for the purposes of this review. All opinions are my own.
