π Free or Low-Cost Eye Doctors Near Me: 20 Reliable Places to Save Your Vision
Eye care is essential, but for many, the cost can be overwhelming. Whether you need an eye exam, glasses, or treatment for conditions like glaucoma, there are affordable solutions. So, where can you find trusted low-cost eye care near you?
Key Takeaways: Quick Answers to Your Eye Care Questions π
- Where can I find free or low-cost eye care? ποΈ Several national programs, non-profits, and clinics provide affordable services.
- Who qualifies for free eye exams? π©Ί Uninsured, low-income families, seniors, and children often qualify.
- Whatβs included in these programs? π Services range from eye exams to surgeries and free glasses.
- Are there programs for kids and seniors? β Yes, programs like InfantSEE and VISION USA target specific groups.
- What if I need glasses or surgery? π₯ Programs like Lions Clubs and Mission Cataract USA can help.
π§ Who Offers Free or Affordable Eye Care Near Me? Letβs Break It Down
Hereβs a summary of 20 trusted places where you can find affordable eye doctors and programs that meet your needs:
Program/Place | What They Offer | Whoβs Eligible | Key Tip π‘ |
---|---|---|---|
EyeCare America | Free eye exams, 1 year of care | Seniors, uninsured individuals | Visit their site to check eligibility π |
InfantSEE | Free eye exams for infants | Infants aged 6-12 months | Start your child early for eye health πΆ |
VISION USA | Free exams through volunteer optometrists | Low-income, uninsured workers | Apply through a state agency π |
Lions Clubs International | Glasses, exams, surgeries | Varies by location | Contact your local club π |
New Eyes | Free prescription glasses | Low-income individuals | Apply for a voucher online π |
Mission Cataract USA | Free cataract surgery | Those unable to afford surgery | Early application increases chances π₯ |
Operation Sight | Free cataract care | Low-income, uninsured patients | Coordinate with local surgeons π©Ί |
VSP Eyes of Hope | Free eye exams, glasses through gift certs | Children and adults in need | Find participating doctors online π |
Sight for Students | Eye exams, glasses for kids | Low-income, uninsured children | Teachers and nurses can help refer π¦π§ |
Prevent Blindness | Financial assistance, education programs | Families and individuals | Check out state-specific resources ποΈ |
Community Health Centers | Affordable eye care at local centers | Uninsured or low-income individuals | Use HRSA to locate a center near you πΊοΈ |
Local Optometry Colleges | Low-cost eye exams by supervised students | Everyone | Contact local universities π |
Medicaid/CHIP | Vision coverage for children and qualifying adults | Low-income families | Check eligibility with state offices π¬ |
Medicare | Eye care for specific health conditions | Seniors, certain medical cases | Ask your provider about Part B coverage π₯ |
AGS Cares | Free glaucoma treatment and surgery | Uninsured glaucoma patients | Get a referral from a doctor π©Ί |
OneSight | Free exams and glasses through clinics | Families and individuals in need | Look for nearby OneSight clinics π |
Local Lions Clubs | Glasses, eye exams, and screenings | Varies | Find a nearby Lions Club chapter π |
State Vocational Agencies | Eye care for those with vision disabilities | Individuals needing vocational help | Ideal for employment-focused care πΌ |
Retail Chains (Walmart, Costco) | Low-cost eye exams and glasses | Everyone | Membership may be required π |
Charitable Pharmacies | Discounted vision care resources | Low-income individuals | Ask about available programs π£οΈ |
π©Ί Who Qualifies for These Eye Care Programs?
Access to these programs depends on:
- Income Level: Low-income families often qualify.
- Insurance Status: Uninsured individuals get priority.
- Age: Programs like InfantSEE focus on infants, while others target seniors.
- Medical Need: Conditions like cataracts and glaucoma may allow for free surgery programs.
π‘ Pro Tip: Always check specific eligibility requirements and apply early to secure your spot.
π What About Glasses? Where Can I Get Them for Free or Cheap?
If you need eyeglasses, here are your best options:
- New Eyes: Free prescription glasses with a voucher program.
- Lions Clubs International: Offers refurbished glasses and exams.
- VSP Eyes of Hope: Gift certificates for free exams and eyewear.
- OneSight: Free glasses through local vision clinics.
- Retail Options: Walmart, Costco, and local vision clinics offer discounted glasses.
π‘ Quick Tip: Bring your prescription to discount retailers to save money!
π What If I Need Surgery for Cataracts or Glaucoma?
Cataract and glaucoma treatments can be costly, but programs like these provide help:
- Mission Cataract USA: Free cataract surgery for those who qualify.
- Operation Sight: Volunteer surgeons offer free cataract care.
- AGS Cares: Free glaucoma surgery for uninsured patients.
These organizations work with volunteer surgeons to restore vision without cost.
π‘ Quick Tip: Get a referral from an optometrist or ophthalmologist to connect with these programs faster.
π Quick Recap: Reliable Places for Affordable Eye Care
- Free exams? ποΈ Yes, programs like EyeCare America and InfantSEE.
- Need glasses? π Try New Eyes, Lions Clubs, and VSP Eyes of Hope.
- Surgery required? π₯ Check out Mission Cataract USA and Operation Sight.
- General care? π©Ί Community Health Centers and retail chains offer affordable options.
Your vision mattersβdonβt hesitate to explore these resources and prioritize your eye health today! πβ¨
π¬ Comment 1: βWhat if I have a specific eye condition like glaucoma or diabetic retinopathy? Can these programs help me?β
Absolutely! Many of the programs mentioned not only focus on general eye care but also specialized treatments for conditions like glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, and cataracts. Letβs break this down in detail to see how these resources can specifically help you.
Condition | Program/Service | What They Provide | Who It Helps |
---|---|---|---|
Glaucoma π©Ί | AGS Cares | Free glaucoma treatment, including surgery | Uninsured, low-income individuals |
Cataracts ποΈ | Mission Cataract USA & Operation Sight | Free cataract surgery | Anyone unable to afford surgery |
Diabetic Retinopathy π©Έ | EyeCare America | Comprehensive diabetic eye exams | Seniors, uninsured with diabetes |
Macular Degeneration π | EyeCare America | Detection and treatment referrals | Seniors at risk for age-related macular issues |
Critical Insight: Eye conditions like glaucoma and diabetic retinopathy require early detection and ongoing treatment. Programs like AGS Cares and EyeCare America work with experienced ophthalmologists who volunteer their time to deliver specialized care, including surgical interventions. For cataracts, initiatives like Mission Cataract USA provide life-changing surgeries at no cost to the patient.
π‘ Expert Tip: If you suspect you have an eye condition, visit an optometrist or ophthalmologist for a diagnosis. Once confirmed, apply immediately to relevant programs as availability can vary. Keep a record of your medical history and doctorβs referrals for streamlined application processes.
π¬ Comment 2: βAre there any free or low-cost options for kids who need glasses or eye exams?β
Yes, several programs focus specifically on childrenβs eye health to ensure they have a clear path to learning and development. Children often need early detection for issues like nearsightedness, lazy eye, or astigmatism to prevent long-term complications.
Program | Service Provided | Eligibility | Key Tip π‘ |
---|---|---|---|
InfantSEE πΆ | Free comprehensive eye exams for infants | Infants aged 6-12 months | Early detection ensures healthy vision |
Sight for Students π | Free exams and glasses for kids | Low-income, uninsured children | Teachers or nurses can help refer |
VSP Eyes of Hope π | Free eye exams and glasses | School-aged kids in need | Request vouchers through VSP partners |
Lions Clubs International π¦ | Free glasses and screenings | Varies by location | Local clubs often partner with schools |
Why This Matters: Vision problems in kids can affect academic performance and overall development. Programs like InfantSEE provide early eye assessments, while Sight for Students and VSP Eyes of Hope focus on ensuring kids in low-income families receive prescription glasses and necessary care.
π‘ Expert Tip: If youβre unsure where to start, speak with your childβs school nurse or pediatrician. Many of these programs require a referral, and schools often partner with local organizations to identify children in need.
π¬ Comment 3: βHow can I access affordable glasses if I already have my prescription?β
If you already have your prescription, getting low-cost glasses is much easier! Several organizations and retailers provide affordable or even free options for eyeglasses. Hereβs a clear comparison to help you choose:
Option | Whatβs Offered | Cost | Where to Access |
---|---|---|---|
New Eyes π | Free prescription glasses | Free (requires application) | Online voucher program |
Zenni Optical π | Budget-friendly eyeglasses | Starting at $6.95 | Online ordering (zennioptical.com) |
Walmart Vision Center π | Low-cost frames and lenses | Varies but very affordable | Walmart retail locations |
Costco Optical π·οΈ | Affordable glasses with membership | Lower costs for members | Costco Wholesale |
Lions Clubs International π¦ | Refurbished or new glasses | Free or low-cost | Contact your local Lions chapter |
π‘ Expert Tip: Online retailers like Zenni Optical offer highly affordable eyeglasses if you have a valid prescription. Alternatively, programs like New Eyes provide vouchers for free glasses if cost remains an obstacle. Local Lions Clubs often collect and refurbish eyeglasses, making this an eco-friendly and cost-effective option.
π¬ Comment 4: βWhatβs the difference between free eye care programs and low-cost retail options?β
This is a great question! Both options are valuable, but they serve different needs based on eligibility, urgency, and financial circumstances.
Aspect | Free Eye Care Programs π | Low-Cost Retail Options π° |
---|---|---|
Eligibility | Income or insurance-based, often restricted | Available to anyone, regardless of income |
Services | Comprehensive care (exams, surgery, glasses) | Primarily exams, glasses, and contacts |
Time to Access | Application process; longer wait times | Immediate service (walk-in availability) |
Cost | Fully free but may require proof of need | Discounted rates, varies by provider |
Examples | EyeCare America, VSP Eyes of Hope | Walmart Vision, Costco Optical, Zenni |
Key Difference: Programs like EyeCare America and Mission Cataract USA are ideal if you need extensive services like surgery or if youβre uninsured and financially struggling. However, if youβre looking for convenience and faster access to glasses or exams, retail chains like Walmart Vision Center or Costco Optical provide quality care at significantly reduced rates.
π‘ Expert Tip: Use free programs if you qualify and need high-cost treatments. Otherwise, opt for retail centers to save time and access care quickly.
π¬ Comment 5: βHow can I prepare for an eye exam if Iβm applying for these programs?β
Preparation ensures you get the most out of your eye exam, whether youβre applying for a program or visiting a low-cost clinic.
Step | What to Do | Why It Matters |
---|---|---|
1. Bring Documentation π | Proof of income, insurance, or ID | Required for eligibility verification |
2. Note Symptoms π | List any vision changes or eye issues | Helps doctors diagnose problems faster |
3. Update Prescription π | Bring your current eyeglass/contacts Rx | Ensures accurate vision updates |
4. Family History ποΈ | Know your familyβs eye health history | Critical for identifying genetic risks |
5. Ask Questions π©Ί | Prepare questions about glasses, surgery, or costs | Allows you to explore all care options |
π‘ Expert Tip: Always call ahead to confirm what documents or eligibility proof are needed. For free programs, ensure youβve completed applications correctly to avoid delays.
π¬ Comment 6: βWhat if I have no insurance but need regular eye exams for a chronic condition like diabetes?β
Having no insurance can feel overwhelming, but numerous resources specialize in providing consistent, affordable eye care for individuals managing chronic conditions like diabetes. These programs prioritize early detection and regular monitoring to protect your vision health.
Program/Resource | Service Offered | Why Itβs Crucial | Eligibility |
---|---|---|---|
EyeCare America π©Ί | Free comprehensive diabetic eye exams | Detects diabetic retinopathy early | Uninsured seniors with diabetes |
Community Health Centers π₯ | Affordable ongoing eye care | Provides regular check-ups and treatment | Uninsured, low-income individuals |
Lions Clubs International π¦ | Exams and vision care assistance | Offers monitoring for long-term eye health | Open to individuals in need |
Retail Options (Walmart Vision, Costco) π | Low-cost exams for ongoing care | Affordable for uninsured patients | Open to all, low out-of-pocket costs |
Critical Insight: Diabetic retinopathy, a leading cause of blindness, often progresses silently without noticeable symptoms. Programs like EyeCare America focus on free exams to catch changes early, helping prevent irreversible damage. For ongoing monitoring, Community Health Centers and affordable retail options like Walmart Vision offer consistent care at reduced rates.
π‘ Expert Tip: Keep a detailed record of blood sugar levels, medications, and any vision changes between visits. Share these details during your exam so doctors can tailor treatment plans effectively.
π¬ Comment 7: βAre there any resources for veterans to access affordable eye care and glasses?β
Veterans have access to exclusive programs and organizations that offer free or low-cost eye care, recognizing their service and prioritizing their vision health. Hereβs a clear breakdown of options:
Program/Service | Whatβs Covered | Who Itβs For | Key Tip π‘ |
---|---|---|---|
VA Health Care πΊπΈ | Free eye exams, glasses, and treatment | Veterans enrolled in VA benefits | Apply through the VA health system π |
Vision Centers of Excellence π©Ί | Eye care for service-related injuries | Veterans and active military members | Focuses on combat-related eye issues |
Lions Clubs International π¦ | Free glasses and exams | Veterans facing financial hardship | Contact local Lions chapters for help |
Veterans Service Organizations ποΈ | Assistance finding low-cost eye care | Veterans not enrolled in VA programs | Connect through groups like VFW or DAV |
Critical Insight: Veterans enrolled in the VA Health Care System are eligible for free or heavily discounted eye care, including treatment for service-related injuries. Programs like the Vision Centers of Excellence specifically address injuries sustained during combat or service, ensuring specialized care. For veterans not currently receiving VA benefits, organizations like Lions Clubs and VFW offer additional avenues for affordable solutions.
π‘ Expert Tip: If youβre unsure of your eligibility, visit your nearest VA office to enroll in VA health services or consult with veteransβ organizations to explore all available options.
π¬ Comment 8: βHow do I know if my local optometry school offers affordable eye care?β
Optometry schools are an excellent resource for low-cost, high-quality eye care. Supervised by licensed professionals, students conduct thorough exams while gaining valuable hands-on experience.
What to Look For | How It Helps | What to Ask | Key Tip π‘ |
---|---|---|---|
University Clinics π | Exams, screenings, and low-cost care | Helps you access care at reduced rates | Ask about student supervision levels |
Referral Programs π | Referrals for specialized treatments | Provides affordable follow-ups | Inquire about partnerships with hospitals |
Sliding Scale Fees π΅ | Charges based on income level | Makes care accessible to all incomes | Verify cost structure during booking |
Contact Schools π | Directly call nearby optometry schools | Get immediate information on services | Research schools in your state |
Critical Insight: Many optometry schools offer full-service eye clinics where exams and treatments cost significantly less than private practices. Fees often operate on a sliding scale, meaning you pay based on your income. Universities may also have referral programs for advanced treatments or surgeries through affiliated medical centers.
π‘ Expert Tip: Check the schoolβs website or call ahead to confirm services, pricing, and appointment availability. If you have a specific condition, ask whether they specialize in treating it.
π¬ Comment 9: βIs there any assistance for seniors who need both eye care and glasses but are on a fixed income?β
Seniors on fixed incomes often face challenges affording vision care, but targeted programs ensure they receive comprehensive support. Hereβs where seniors can turn for help:
Program/Service | Whatβs Provided | Why Itβs Ideal for Seniors | Eligibility |
---|---|---|---|
EyeCare America π©Ί | Free eye exams, 1-year follow-up care | Focuses on age-related eye diseases | Seniors aged 65+ without insurance |
New Eyes π | Free prescription glasses | Helps seniors afford essential eyewear | Low-income seniors |
Medicare Part B πΌ | Exams for specific eye conditions | Covers glaucoma, macular degeneration | Enrolled seniors with qualifying conditions |
Lions Clubs International π¦ | Exams and glasses assistance | Local chapters provide tailored support | Open to seniors in need |
Critical Insight: Programs like EyeCare America focus specifically on seniors, addressing age-related conditions such as glaucoma, macular degeneration, and cataracts. Seniors with Medicare Part B can also receive coverage for eye care related to these conditions. For glasses, non-profits like New Eyes and Lions Clubs provide free or low-cost solutions to ensure seniors maintain their quality of life.
π‘ Expert Tip: Always ask about senior-specific discounts when visiting optometrists or clinics. Many retail chains and non-profits offer tailored programs for seniors, ensuring affordability without compromising care.
π¬ Comment 10: βAre there any programs to help people with vision impairments get employment assistance?β
Yes! Vision impairments can pose challenges in the workplace, but programs exist to support employment readiness, job placement, and vocational training for individuals with low vision or blindness.
Program/Organization | What They Offer | Who It Helps | How to Access π‘ |
---|---|---|---|
State Vocational Rehab ποΈ | Job training, assistive technology | Individuals with visual impairments | Find your state agency online |
National Industries for the Blind (NIB) π | Employment opportunities and training | Blind or visually impaired individuals | Apply directly through NIB programs |
Hadley Institute π | Online job training and life skills | Adults with vision impairments | Free or low-cost virtual courses |
Lighthouse for the Blind π¦ | Employment resources and support | Low-vision and blind individuals | Connect with local Lighthouse chapters |
Critical Insight: Programs like State Vocational Rehabilitation Agencies work to prepare individuals with vision impairments for employment through skills training, technology access, and job placement assistance. Organizations like NIB directly create employment opportunities, while Hadley Institute focuses on virtual education for job readiness.
π‘ Expert Tip: Take advantage of assistive technology resources offered through these programs. Tools like screen readers and magnification software can enhance productivity and job performance.
π¬ Comment 11: βWhat resources are available for visually impaired individuals needing assistive technology or devices?β
Access to assistive technology is a game-changer for individuals with visual impairments. Devices like screen readers, magnifiers, braille displays, and voice-command tools can improve independence and quality of life. Several organizations specialize in providing these technologies at low or no cost.
Resource/Program | Assistive Tools Provided | Who It Helps | How to Access π‘ |
---|---|---|---|
National Federation of the Blind (NFB) π¦― | Braille displays, screen readers, software | Blind and visually impaired individuals | Apply for tech grants or scholarships |
American Foundation for the Blind (AFB) π | Tools like magnifiers, talking devices | Individuals with low vision | Offers product recommendations online |
Assistive Technology Act Programs (ATAP) π₯οΈ | Device loans, training, and funding support | Low-income or visually impaired individuals | Find state-specific programs near you |
Lighthouse for the Blind π¦ | Magnification devices, screen readers | Blind or low-vision individuals | Visit local chapters for evaluations |
Hadley Institute for the Blind π | Training on technology like VoiceOver or JAWS | Adults learning assistive technology | Offers free virtual training courses |
Critical Insight: Assistive devices, such as JAWS screen readers, CCTV magnifiers, and portable braille note-takers, can open up new avenues for education, employment, and day-to-day tasks. Programs like NFB provide financial grants or device loans to help individuals access these expensive technologies without straining their budgets. Similarly, ATAPs ensure that funding, hands-on training, and tools reach those who need them most.
π‘ Expert Tip: Reach out to local rehabilitation centers or organizations like Hadley Institute for training on using devices effectively. Combining technology with skill-building ensures maximum benefit.
π¬ Comment 12: βAre there any specific services for children with severe vision loss to support their education?β
Children with severe vision impairments often need tailored educational support and adaptive learning resources to ensure they keep pace with peers. Fortunately, specialized programs exist to provide tools, guidance, and funding for families and educators.
Program/Organization | Services Provided | Who It Helps | Key Tip π‘ |
---|---|---|---|
American Printing House for the Blind (APH) π | Braille textbooks, tactile learning kits | Children with vision loss in school | Available through schools or nonprofits |
Perkins School for the Blind π | Specialized education and training | Children with low or no vision | Combines education with life skills |
National Federation of the Blind π¦― | Braille literacy programs, mentorship | Families and children with vision loss | Attend NFB Braille enrichment programs |
Bookshare π | Free audiobooks and e-textbooks | Students with visual impairments | Provides school curriculum resources |
IDEA Act (Individuals with Disabilities Education Act) π« | Legal rights for special education | Students requiring tailored support | Request Individualized Education Plans (IEP) |
Critical Insight: Organizations like the APH provide critical tools such as braille textbooks, audio learning materials, and tactile graphics, making education more accessible for children with visual impairments. Programs like the Perkins School and NFB go further by combining education with essential life skills, ensuring children develop independence and confidence. Meanwhile, Bookshare gives access to thousands of audiobooks aligned with school curricula, offering flexibility in how kids consume educational content.
π‘ Expert Tip: Parents can collaborate with teachers to create a strong IEP (Individualized Education Plan) under the IDEA Act. This plan ensures a childβs unique needs are addressed, from specialized materials to assistive devices.
π¬ Comment 13: βWhat should I do if I live in a rural area with limited access to eye care programs?β
Living in rural areas can pose challenges when it comes to accessing eye care, but there are creative and effective solutions. Many national organizations and initiatives extend their services to rural regions through telehealth programs, mobile clinics, and voucher systems.
Solution | What It Offers | How It Works | Key Tip π‘ |
---|---|---|---|
Tele-Optometry Services π₯οΈ | Virtual eye exams and consultations | Conduct exams remotely via video tools | Use programs like EyeQue or VSP π± |
Mobile Vision Clinics π | On-site exams and glasses | Vision buses travel to rural locations | Check schedules with OneSight π |
New Eyes Vouchers π³ | Free glasses shipped to your location | Apply online for mail-order glasses | Perfect for those unable to travel |
HRSA Health Centers π₯ | Low-cost local care through clinics | Rural centers provide sliding-scale fees | Search for clinics on HRSAβs website π |
Lions Clubs International π¦ | Mobile screenings and vision support | Local chapters often host rural events | Connect with nearby Lions Clubs πΊοΈ |
Critical Insight: Programs like mobile clinics (OneSight and Lions Clubs) bring vision services directly to rural communities. If you have internet access, tele-optometry services allow for comprehensive virtual eye exams using devices that connect with specialists remotely. Voucher-based programs, such as New Eyes, bridge geographical barriers by providing free prescription glasses shipped directly to your home.
π‘ Expert Tip: Stay connected with local health departments or community organizations. They often share updates about upcoming mobile clinics, rural events, and telehealth services that can save you a trip to distant cities.
π¬ Comment 14: βHow can seniors or individuals with disabilities get transportation for eye care appointments?β
Transportation barriers are a common issue for seniors or individuals with disabilities, but solutions exist to ensure access to vital eye care appointments. Programs offering rides, partnerships, and subsidies provide critical support.
Program/Service | Whatβs Offered | Who It Helps | How to Access π‘ |
---|---|---|---|
Medicaid Non-Emergency Transportation (NEMT) π | Free rides to medical appointments | Medicaid recipients | Schedule through state Medicaid office |
Dial-A-Ride Services π | Subsidized or free local transportation | Seniors and individuals with disabilities | Offered by local transit agencies |
Lions Clubs Assistance π¦ | Transportation help for vision care | Low-income individuals | Request support through local chapters |
Area Agencies on Aging (AAA) π΅ | Transportation services for seniors | Seniors aged 60+ | Connect through local AAA offices π |
Volunteer Driver Programs π€ | Free or low-cost rides via volunteers | Rural or isolated individuals | Contact community centers or churches |
Critical Insight: Programs like Medicaid NEMT provide non-emergency transportation to medical appointments, including eye exams. Dial-A-Ride and AAA transportation services are ideal for seniors, offering door-to-door rides at reduced costs. Additionally, Lions Clubs and local volunteer networks provide personalized support, especially in rural areas where public transit is limited.
π‘ Expert Tip: When scheduling appointments, ask the clinic or doctorβs office if they partner with transportation services. Many providers have local arrangements to assist patients who need help getting to appointments.
π¬ Comment 15: βCan I get help if my vision loss is preventing me from working?β
Vision loss can significantly impact employment, but vocational rehabilitation programs exist to help you gain new skills, access assistive tools, and re-enter the workforce.
Resource | Services Provided | Who It Helps | Key Tip π‘ |
---|---|---|---|
State Vocational Rehab ποΈ | Job training, assistive devices | Individuals with vision loss | Reach out to state rehab offices π |
Ticket to Work Program πΌ | Employment support and counseling | Social Security disability recipients | Ideal for those receiving SSDI or SSI |
National Industries for the Blind (NIB) π― | Employment opportunities and training | Blind or low-vision adults | Provides direct job placements |
Lighthouse for the Blind π¦ | Workplace readiness programs | Individuals transitioning to new careers | Combines training and job placement |
Critical Insight: Programs like State Vocational Rehabilitation and Ticket to Work help individuals develop skills, access assistive technology, and secure meaningful employment. Organizations like NIB specialize in creating opportunities for visually impaired individuals through job placements and ongoing training.
π‘ Expert Tip: Contact a vocational counselor to explore career options tailored to your needs. These professionals can guide you through adaptive technologies, workplace accommodations, and training opportunities.