What is the Pokagon Fund Children’s Vision Program?

It is a free program providing eye exams and glasses to all children between 9 months and 6th grade in Harbor Country.

Who qualifies for the eye exams?

All children ages 9 months through 6th grade who reside in the Harbor Country area with the following zip codes are eligible: 49115, 49116, 49117, 49125, 49128, 49129

Are there any income restrictions?

No, your income does not matter.

What is required for proof of residency and how do I submit it?

A copy of your Driver’s License, a utility bill, a tax bill or a copy of your lease are all acceptable documents for proof of residency. In addition, you may be required to show the child’s birth certificate and/or proof of guardianship. You may submit these documents in one of the following ways:

• Give to a New Buffalo Lions Club Member
• Mail to: PO Box 26, New Buffalo, MI 49117
• Take to any Horizon Bank in New Buffalo or Three Oaks
• Scan and email to us

What doctors are providing the exams?

Please review the Approved Providers list to the right.

My current eye doctor is not on this list. Can I go to him/her?

Currently, these are the only providers that are approved by this program.

What if I have Vision Insurance?

Your child is still eligible as long as s/he meets the age and geographic requirements. If you have a deductible that needs to be met first, the cost of the exam will be applied to your deductible AND we will pay for the exam so that there is no out-of-pocket cost to you.

What if we need transportation to/from the providers office?

A member of the Lion’s Club will be more than happy to provide you with transportation if you need it. Once your child has been approved you can arrange transportation.

How do I apply?

You can apply right here on our website or obtain an application from any Horizon Bank in New Buffalo or Three Oaks or from a New Buffalo Lions Club Member. We can also mail one to you. Just call 269-612-7602.

How do I know if my child has been qualified or not?

You will receive an email or a letter telling you if your child has been approved or not and why. If approved the letter will contain an authorization code that will be used by the eye doctor to verify approval.
If not approved you may reapply if/when you meet the criteria.

I know of a child that would benefit from this program. How can s/he get referred?

Please refer them to this website, Horizon Bank, a New Buffalo Lions Club Member or have them call 269-612-7602 for more info.