GIFT OF SIGHT 2023-24 Project

We are delighted to present our 2023-24 project, which consists of three major parts that are already underway. Our primary objective is to perform a total of 3,100 surgeries throughout the project, with a special emphasis on restoring vision to individuals affected by cataracts.

1. Aligarh District: Our first focus area is the Aligarh District, where we aim to achieve the elimination of cataracts in 25 to 50 villages. Throughout the project, our goal is to perform a total of 1,100 surgeries, prioritizing remote rural areas and bringing the gift of sight to those in need.
2. Widows of Vrindavan: This part of the project is a collaborative effort with IGVS, Houston and specifically caters to the needs of widows in Vrindavan, Mathura. Our mission is to perform 1,000 surgeries in this region, bringing improved vision and enhancing the quality of life for these individuals. Vrindavan, known as the “City of Widows,” provides solace and protection to widows from diverse faiths, symbolizing resilience and compassion.
3. Nine Other Major Cities: As part of our project, we aspire to extend our efforts to nine major cities spanning from Punjab to Kashi. The success of this endeavor will depend on the availability of support from local NGOs, as well as funds and resources. By leveraging these, we aim to perform additional surgeries, contributing to our overall target of 3,100 surgeries.

We are determined to achieve our target of 3,100 surgeries through the generous support of Indian donors and various stakeholders. Together, we can make a significant impact on the lives of those in need.

In summary, our project comprises targeting cataract elimination in the Aligarh District, performing surgeries for widows in Vrindavan, and extending our efforts to major cities. Our total goal is to perform 3,100 surgeries, with a specific focus on 1,000 surgeries in Vrindavan, Mathura.

Widows of Vrindavan Gift Of Sight: 

International Gaudiya Vedanta Society Houston (IGVS), members will lead this project and our,  Friends For Cause Foundation (FFCF) and other local NGOs in India, role is to collaborate the ground selection camps, survey and selection process. 

The Widows of Vrindavan Project holds a special place in our hearts as it aims to address the needs of widows in Vrindavan, who have sought solace and protection in this vibrant city.

Led by IGVS and their dedicated team, with the collaboration of FFCF and local NGOs in India, this project is an opportunity to empower widows of various faiths with the gift of vision and hope.

We are committed to transparency and accountability in our operations. All funds collected for this noble cause are meticulously allocated to fund essential eye surgeries. Through our past experiences, we have successfully executed similar projects, demonstrating our dedication and ability to manage large-scale endeavors.

Yogesh Bhatia, a Canadian citizen residing in Vancouver and the founder of FFCF, is the extraordinary leader spearheading this project. His unwavering commitment and passion for the cause are truly remarkable. He is also an active member of IGVS, Yogesh shares regular updates on his journey and encourages others to support and follow his inspiring endeavors through his Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/yogesh.vancouver/

The estimated cost of the Vrindavan’s Gift of Sight Project ranges from $45,000 to $50,000. This project requires 100 days of meticulous planning and data collection. To realize our vision, we have allocated 20 days for conducting comprehensive eye check camps and registrations, followed by an additional 20 days for surgeries in well-equipped hospitals. We plan to engage the efforts of 200 to 500 field volunteers from esteemed educational institutions.

Your involvement in this noble cause will not only be transformative but also provide you with an unforgettable experience. You can actively contribute by joining our team in India or sponsoring one, two, or multiple surgeries. Your support will create ripples of change, bringing newfound hope to those who need it most.

Here are some key statistics related to the project:

• 100 days of meticulous planning and data collection
• 20 days dedicated to conducting eye check camps and registrations
• 20 days allocated for surgeries in 2-3 hospitals
• 200 to 500 field volunteers from various esteemed schools and colleges

The project is scheduled to be implemented from March 1, 2023, to August 31, 2024. If you would like further details, we would be delighted to provide them upon your request, allowing you to witness the power of compassion firsthand.