New program aims to connect students with vision care using advanced technology, as concerns around children’s eyesight continue to grow
PORT WASHINGTON, N.Y., April 24, 2026 – OPTYX New York will celebrate the grand opening of its new Port Washington location at 102 Main Street on Thursday, May 7, 2026, alongside the launch of “Gift of Sight,” a community initiative developed in partnership with local school districts and nurses to help connect students in need with access to eye exams, eyewear, and vision support.
The event, held in collaboration with the Port Washington Chamber of Commerce, marks a significant milestone for OPTYX New York as it expands to its 13th location in New York, while deepening its commitment to community-based vision care.
“Children cannot perform at their highest level if they are struggling to see clearly in the classroom,” said Johayra Vitale, COO of OPTYX New York. “With Gift of Sight, we are working directly with school nurses and families in Port Washington to help identify and support students who may need vision care – often before they even realize there is an issue.”
The initiative comes at a time when concerns around children’s vision are increasing nationwide. According to federal health data, 25.3% of U.S. children ages 2–17 wear glasses or contact lenses, and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration has reported that myopia (nearsightedness) affects approximately 40% of the U.S. population and is projected to impact more than half of the global population by 2050.
In addition, increased screen use has been associated with rising reports of eye strain, blurred vision, and difficulty focusing among children. Guidance from the Mount Sinai Health System highlights that extended near work, screen exposure, and reduced time outdoors are contributing factors to worsening vision trends in young people.
“Many children don’t realize they are not seeing clearly – they adapt,” said Dr. Melissa Carr, Optometrist and Port Washington resident. “By the time it impacts school performance, the issue may have already been present for some time. Early detection and appropriate care are critical.”
As part of the Port Washington opening, OPTYX will highlight advanced diagnostic and vision technologies available at the new location, including:
- Essilor Stellest lenses, which were authorized by the FDA in 2025 as the first eyeglass lenses designed to slow the progression of myopia in children ages 6–12 at the start of treatment
- Optos retinal imaging is capable of capturing a wide view of the retina to support early detection of eye health issues
- Neurolens, developed to help address symptoms such as headaches, eye strain, and neck pain associated with digital device use and eye alignment issues
The Gift of Sight program will operate as an ongoing community initiative, working in coordination with school nurses to help guide families toward appropriate next steps for care. While New York State requires vision screenings in schools, OPTYX’s program is designed to support families following those screenings by helping facilitate access to comprehensive eye exams and eyewear when needed.
Data from Prevent Blindness indicates that while many children receive vision screenings, follow-through on comprehensive eye exams remains lower – highlighting a gap in access and awareness that programs like Gift of Sight aim to help address.
The May 7 grand opening will include a ribbon cutting with local officials, community members, and school representatives, along with in-store demonstrations of vision technology and educational resources for families. Guests who RSVP or attend will receive a $50 OPTYX gift card toward sunglasses, eyewear, or an eye exam.
Event Details
OPTYX Port Washington Grand Opening & Gift of Sight Launch
Date: Thursday, May 7, 2026
Time: 12:00 PM
Location: 102 Main Street, Port Washington, NY
About OPTYX New York
About OPTYX New York
Founded in 1971, OPTYX New York has set the standard for modern optical, where advanced medical expertise meets unapologetic style. Under the leadership of Harvey Ross – a global force in eyewear with more than 60 years of industry influence – OPTYX has evolved into one of New York’s most respected destinations for vision care and design.
With a growing footprint across the Upper East Side, Upper West Side, Port Washington, Port Jefferson, Wantagh, Wheatley Plaza, Deer Park, Garden City, Mattituck, East Hampton, and White Plains, OPTYX doesn’t just operate locations – it anchors communities with a higher standard of care.
Driven by innovation, OPTYX delivers next-generation vision solutions through technologies including Optos retinal imaging, Neurolens, and Essilor Stellest lenses – bringing precision diagnostics and performance-driven eyewear into a single, elevated experience.
Media Contact
Ingrid Dodd: Regional Director of Marketing Communications Advertising & Social Media, OPTYX New York
516-503-3971
marketing@optyx.com
optyx.com
