Restoring sight through eye donation

As one of the largest and most innovative eye banks in the United States, we ensure that as many people as possible receive the gift of sight — both in Minnesota and around the world. Lions Gift of Sight recovers, medically evaluates and distributes donor eyes to transform lives through corneal transplants, research and education. In 2024, we provided 2,322 corneas for transplant and 1,635 eyes for research. 

Part of the University of Minnesota's Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Neurosciences, Lions Gift of Sight has restored sight for more than 65 years. Lions Gift of Sight is generously supported by the Minnesota Lions Vision Foundation.

We closely partner with hospitals, hospice care providers, emergency medical services, funeral directors, medical examiners, coroners, surgeons and others to honor the wishes of generous eye donors and restore sight for recipients. Lions Gift of Sight is also dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of registering as a donor and providing education on the donation process.