Thousands of children, families, seniors, veterans, and unhoused individuals in Los Angeles County will soon have access to free vision care, thanks to the new Angels for Sight Vision Clinic in Long Beach. The clinic dedication ceremony will be attended by community leaders, dignitaries, and healthcare professionals, marking a historic step in providing equitable healthcare services to the underserved.
Expanded Vision Care for the Community
For over 20 years, Angels for Sight, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, has provided essential vision care to marginalized populations. The new facility represents the organization’s commitment to expanding access to those who need it most. Previously based in Compton, Angels for Sight outgrew its original clinic and faced significant challenges after the 2021 rains severely damaged the facility. This new state-of-the-art clinic will significantly increase its capacity to serve the community.
The California State Budget Allocation, approved by Governor Gavin Newsom, played a critical role in funding the new facility. Former State Senator Steven Bradford, a longtime supporter of Angels for Sight, was instrumental in securing these funds, ensuring that thousands in need would gain access to free eye exams, prescription eyeglasses, and vision safety education.
Honoring a Legacy of Service
The clinic’s opening is the realization of a dream long held by Angels for Sight Founder, Shea Hamilton, who envisioned a larger facility to meet the growing demand for vision services. Tragically, Hamilton passed away in 2023, just after learning that the necessary funding had been secured. Jesa Townsend, the organization’s Executive Director, is leading the charge to honor Hamilton’s vision.
“Angels for Sight has long been a beacon of hope, ensuring that essential eye care is a right, not a privilege. Too often overlooked in health equity, it is vital to education, workforce development, and well-being. By fostering partnerships and addressing socioeconomic issues beyond vision care, we strive to build a more just and equitable future,” said Jesa Townsend.
A Collaborative Approach to Vision Care
The new clinic is more than just a medical facility—it’s a teaching center. Marshall B. Ketchum University’s (MBKU) Southern California College of Optometry is partnering with Angels for Sight to provide real-world clinical experience to optometry students.
“This clinic represents everything MBKU stands for. It’s about creating meaningful opportunities for our students to deliver real-world care while uplifting underserved communities,” said Dr. Mark E. Nakano, Associate Dean of Clinical Affairs at MBKU and the new Clinical Director at Angels for Sight.
State-of-the-Art Facility and Services
The new Long Beach clinic is strategically located in a growing urban corridor ahead of the 2028 Olympics, reinforcing its role in health equity initiatives. It features:
- Four fully equipped patient rooms (up from one in the original clinic)
- Modern diagnostic and treatment equipment
- Expanded space for screenings, fittings, and clinical education
- A community center for advocacy initiatives and events
A Growing Need for Vision Care
Vision care disparities are growing, with over 25% of children in California suffering from undiagnosed vision issues. The lack of access to free, comprehensive eye exams and prescription glasses contributes to high dropout rates, juvenile justice involvement, and lifelong inequity. This clinic seeks to bridge the gap by ensuring that no one is left behind.
Dedication Event and Community Celebration
The Angels for Sight Vision Clinic Dedication on March 28, 2025, will celebrate this major milestone. Community members, dignitaries, and healthcare advocates will attend, with special guests including former State Senator Steven Bradford. Attendees will witness touching tributes to Shea Hamilton’s lasting legacy and the unveiling of a clinic that will transform thousands of lives.
