Weihai launches charity program to restore vision for cataract patients

Weihai has launched a new public welfare program to help residents regain their sight and improve their quality of life. The Cataract Assistance Program aims to bring light back to those struggling with vision loss while easing the financial burden of surgery.

Jointly initiated by the Weihai Civil Affairs Bureau, Weihai Social Assistance Service Center, Weihai Charity Federation, and the Hunan Eye Care Foundation, the program will fund up to 500 cataract surgeries, with a subsidy of up to 1,000 yuan ($140.7) per patient (for one eye). Patients whose treatment costs less will receive assistance according to actual expenses.

The initiative focuses on residents aged 50 and above who are medically eligible for surgery. Priority will be given to low-income households, individuals in extreme hardship, and families supported under national poverty-alleviation or monitoring programs.

Local authorities have been encouraged to step up outreach, identify eligible participants, and ensure smooth implementation. By aligning government welfare with charitable resources, Weihai is creating a compassionate support system — one that restores not only sight, but also confidence and hope for hundreds of residents. (Edited by Hu Kaili)