Provincial Visual Health Services
Eye See…Eye Learn
This program encourages parents/guardians of Junior Kindergarten/Senior Kindergarten students to book a comprehensive eye exam at a participating optometrist. The cost of the exam is covered by OHIP. If the child needs glasses, they will receive a complimentary pair valued at over $250.
Visit the Eye See Eye Learn program website for eligibility requirements and to find a participating optometrist.
Ontario Works and the Ontario Disability Support Program
Families receiving financial assistance from Ontario Works or the Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP) can contact their caseworker for information on accessing glasses.
If you receive ODSP income support, and do not have vision care coverage under the Ontario Health Insurance Plan, you and your family may be eligible for assistance with the following vision care costs:
- All eligible persons may receive new lenses and frames every 3 years when required.
- Children can receive new lenses anytime there is a change in their prescription.
- Assistance with the costs for repairs to glasses is also provided
Visit ODSP Health Benefits: Vision and ODSP: Income Support for more information.
Find your nearest Ontario Works and ODSP office location and contact information here.
Non-insured Health Benefits (NIHB)
The federal government provides vision care benefits for registered First Nations and Inuit persons.
Local Visual Health Services
Optometrists
To find an optometrist near you, visit Find an Eye Doctor. If you need help finding an optometrist or have any questions, contact the Children’s Visual Health Program at (807) 625-5984.
Vision Loss Rehabilitation Ontario – Blind-Low Vision Program
This program, through the Ministry of Children, Community, and Social Services, gives children who are blind or partially sighted specialized, family-centered services from birth to Grade 1. The program offers family support, intervention services to support the child’s development, and consultation services with child care and learning centres. Services are available locally in the Thunder Bay District. A referral from a health care provider is required. For more information call 1-866-821-7770 or visit the Vision Loss Rehabilitation Program's website.