New Optometry Ministry
A Medical Mission Field Update
By Ellen Pearson
November 9, 2025
On our latest mission trip, Sowers of the Kingdom introduced a new initiative focused on practical, community-centered support: a vision care ministry providing free eye exams and glasses. This effort is designed to reduce everyday barriers that can affect learning, confidence, and participation in school and daily life.
During this trip, we supported 130 students from Niños del Reino (Children of the Kingdom), our private school in Las Terrenas and a large number of adults in the medical clinics. For many, this was their first experience receiving a vision screening. By offering comprehensive eye exams, we’re helping students stay engaged in the classroom, build on their strengths, and approach their studies with clarity.
Our dedicated optometrist, Kelli, generously volunteered her time and expertise to care for both children and adults. She provided personalized eye exams, recorded prescriptions, and invited each person to choose from a wide selection of donated frames. Watching students proudly select their glasses – often their very first pair – was a moment of pure joy. The excitement on their faces reflected new possibilities and the anticipation of seeing the world with greater clarity.
Prescriptions were then sent to our partners in the United States, where lenses will be custom-made. Once finished, we will return to the Dominican Republic to personally deliver each pair. This partnership allows us to provide reliable, individualized vision care that supports students at school, at home, and in their daily activities.
Vision care is a powerful investment in a child’s future. While glasses may be a routine resource elsewhere, they can be life-changing in the communities we serve – supporting students as they learn confidently, participate fully, and pursue their God-given potential.
This new ministry is an exciting extension of our calling to sow seeds of hope and transformation in His Kingdom. By offering vision care, we are nurturing the well-being and dignity of children and families while sharing the love of Christ in practical, compassionate ways. We are deeply grateful for the chance to serve and look forward to seeing this ministry grow in the years ahead.
