SOMERSET, N.J. (Diya TV) — The Eye Foundation of America raised $900,000 at its annual charity gala on April 18, bringing together philanthropists, medical experts, and business leaders to fight preventable childhood blindness. Held at The Imperia, the event carried the theme “Join Our Vision.” Organizers said the evening aimed to boost awareness and funding for global eye care programs focused on children in underserved communities.
The gala highlighted a simple but urgent goal: expand access to affordable, high-quality eye care for children worldwide. Leaders at the event stressed that many forms of childhood blindness can be prevented or treated with early intervention. Founded in 1977 by ophthalmologist Vadrevu K. Raju, the foundation has worked for nearly five decades to improve vision care across developing regions. Its programs focus on treatment, education, and prevention.
“Every child deserves to see the world with clarity and purpose,” Raju told attendees. He urged collective action to ensure that medical breakthroughs reach those who need them most.
Raju pointed to recent advances in medicine, including gene therapy and stem cell therapy. These treatments now offer hope for patients with inherited and degenerative eye diseases. He said these breakthroughs could transform millions of lives. However, he also warned that access remains uneven. Many families in low-income regions still cannot afford advanced care.
“The greatest challenge is ensuring these life-changing treatments are accessible and affordable,” Raju said.
Organizers said the $900,000 raised, along with matching contributions, will support long-term programs. These include surgeries, medical training, and community outreach. Trustee Sam Maddali described childhood blindness as a solvable issue. He emphasized that progress depends on sustained collaboration.
“Childhood blindness is a solvable problem, but it requires collective action,” Maddali said.
The foundation’s approach combines direct care with education. Teams conduct eye camps, run hospitals,s and train local health workers. Programs also teach teachers to identify early signs of vision problems in children.
The organization reports serving about 2.5 million patients to date. It has performed more than 340,000 surgeries, including over 30,000 for children. Trustee Srinu Maddula highlighted the human impact behind those numbers. He said restoring a child’s vision can change entire families and communities.
“When you help a baby open her eyes for the first time, you change the world,” he said.
Another trustee, Sekhar Vemparala, echoed the need for continued support. He said collaboration can help ensure every child has access to quality eye care.
Speakers also drew attention to conditions such as Retinopathy of Prematurity, a leading cause of childhood blindness. They stressed the importance of early detection and timely treatment. The foundation promotes awareness through community programs. It also encourages preventive practices and injury reduction.
The evening ended with remarks from Leela V. Raju, who thanked donors and volunteers. She urged continued support for education and prevention efforts.
“We must ensure more people understand the causes of childhood blindness,” she said.
