Milan, Italy, 06.03.2009

Recently, Luxottica employees through the OneSight foundation spent two days in Melbourne, Australia screening 40 people from disadvantaged backgrounds. Those screened are members of a unique choir, known as the Choir of Hope and Inspiration. The Founding Music Director, Jonathon Welch, has established choirs around Australia with the aim of providing a positive environment for disadvantaged people.
 

The Choir has had some amazing commercial success with concerts at the Sydney Opera House and even a television series.
When Jonathan Welch attended the Luxottica Australia Conference last year, CEO Chris Beer was so impressed with the work he was doing with the Choir that he promised Luxottica would support its members with free eyecare and eyewear indefinitely.
Mr Welch was very grateful for this opportunity, recognising that like many homeless and disadvantaged people, a number of Choir members suffer from health issues and can’t access the support they need.
When the opportunity to work with the Choir arose, OneSight Manager, Gina de George, was pleased that our employees had the opportunity to make a difference to these people’s lives.
 

As a result of the screening, 11 people were referred to stores in Melbourne for full eye tests and replacement glasses and two for new prescriptions. Another person also required assistance with a low vision aid (illuminated magnifier) and OneSight has bought this on their behalf.
OneSight and Luxottica will continue to support the Choir over coming years and are currently exploring ways to support the other Australian choirs that are linked to the Choir if Hope and Inspiration.