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NC Born, Independently Owned, Nationally Recognized

Truly Comprehensive
Eye Care

TEI Gives Back Program

Group photo of The Eye Institute staff holding a banner for "Give Back Day," promoting community vision care services, with background displaying eyeglass frames.
The Eye Institute Give Back Day logo featuring a heart and arrows, highlighting "1300 exams & pairs of glasses donated since 2011."

TEI Gives Back: Free Eye Exams & Glasses for Those in NeedTEI Gives Back 

Making a Difference, One Vision at a Time

The Eye Institute believes in becoming an integral part of the communities we serve. Vision care is essential, yet we also recognize that not everyone who needs glassesor eye exams can comfortably afford them. With this in mind, TEI proudly hosts our annual “Give Back Day,” a tradition we’ve upheld every fall since 2011 at our Knightdale location.

During Give Back Day, our dedicated team provides complimentary eye exams and a free pair of prescription glasses to the first 100 individuals who walk through our doors. Since its inception, approximately 1,300 exams and pairs of glasses have been donated. Our staff eagerly anticipates this event, cherishing joyful moments when participants wear their new glasses for the first time, experiencing clear vision and smiling brightly. These smiles and moments of renewed clarity motivate us to continue our efforts annually.

Beyond our annual event, TEI remains committed to supporting community members year-round. If you know someone experiencing financial hardship who genuinely needs vision care, we warmly encourage you to nominate them for a free eye exam and glasses. Nominations are accepted year-round, and our team carefully selects deserving candidates monthly based on demonstrated need. To nominate, simply complete the form below, detailing why your nominee qualifies for assistance. If selected, our team will personally reach out to arrange an appointment. Unless specifically requested otherwise, we may share your name with your nominee.

At The Eye Institute, we believe clear vision is more than just sight—it’s the gateway to improved quality of life, opportunities, and community connection.

Submit Your Nominee!

This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.
Your Name
Nominee Name
Please provide an essay that explains in detail why this person is experiencing hardship, what their visual needs are, what their daily activities include, and why he/she is the ideal recipient of the free exam and glasses give back.
Group of diverse individuals smiling, representing patient satisfaction and personalized care at The Eye Institute, emphasizing community and exceptional eye health services.

Testimonials

Mary Eshelman sharing a positive testimonial about her experience at The Eye Institute, highlighting excellent care and state-of-the-art equipment.

I was very pleased with my first visit to the Eye Institute. Everyone was very polite and professional. The care I received was excellent. Their equipment is state of the art. Thank you for your excellent service.

Mary Eshelman

Angie Hendricks smiling in sunglasses, reflecting positive patient experience at The Eye Institute, emphasizing excellent eye care and customer service.

We love this facility and I love my doctor. He listens attentively and explains everything in explicit details. The customer service is also great. Everyone is so pleasant, attentive and helpful! I wouldn't consider going anywhere else!

 

Angie Hendricks

Patient testimonial from Sarah Dunn, highlighting her long-term care experience at The Eye Institute, emphasizing attentive service and eye health maintenance.

I have been coming to see Dr. Poirier here for 16 years. He is excellent, and has always taken the time to not just check my vision, but to maintain my eye health. My eyes have changed with age and diabetes, but all of the wonderful staff here have kept my vision as great as ever!

Sarah Dunn

Tracey Maxwell, satisfied patient at The Eye Institute, with blonde hair and wearing a black top, smiling in a circular frame.

Young man that did my exam was super sweet and did a great job. Everyone at practice is always nice. Dr P is always nice and informative. I am very satisfied with the care I receive.

Tracey Maxwell

Brianna Camp smiling in an eye care facility, illustrating positive patient experience at The Eye Institute, showcasing friendly and attentive staff.

This was my 1st visit to this office. Everyone was very friendly, knowledgeable, and helpful. They talked me through a few issues I'd been having that most would just brush off and was super helpful in getting me what I need. I highly recommend Dr. P and his staff to get you what you need.

Brianna Camp

Mother joyfully lifting her young child outdoors, showcasing a warm family moment, relevant to patient experiences at The Eye Institute.

I took my 5 year old for an eye exam and everyone was super friendly, patient and professional. Would highly recommend!

Danielle Driver

Young adults with diverse hairstyles and expressions, showcasing friendly and professional demeanor, representing patient satisfaction at The Eye Institute.