Zenni and Chase Stokes Support NYC Student Wellness

Zenni Optical, Chase Stokes and Bring Change to Mind provided free vision care and mental wellness programming to nearly 300 students at Manhattan Early College Academy in New York City on October 7. More than half of the students screened needed new or updated prescriptions. Students also received prescription eyewear from the Zenni x Chase Stokes collection, with EyeQLenz™ with Zenni ID Guard™ lenses. The school’s BC2M Club led a group activity and discussion focused on mental health and wellness.

Vision Care at School

The event brought vision screenings and exams directly to students, alongside a meet-and-greet with Stokes. Clinical services were provided by Optical Academy.

Veronica Alcaro, VP of Brand at Zenni, said:

“Eye health is an important part of overall wellbeing, and we know that when young people can see clearly, they can better engage with the world around them. We’re proud to partner with Chase and Bring Change to Mind to bring vision care directly to students and make quality eyewear more accessible. At Zenni, we believe clear vision should never be considered a luxury, and everyone deserves access to the quality eyewear they need to see, learn and experience the world around them with confidence.”

Mental Wellness Programming

The partnership comes at a particularly meaningful time, with World Vision Day on October 8 and World Mental Health Day on October 10, creating an opportunity to consider how different aspects of health and wellness intersect. Bring Change to Mind’s student-led programming supports young people in discussing mental health in their communities.

Pamela Harrington, Executive Director at Bring Change to Mind, said:

“Creating spaces where young people can talk openly about their mental health is essential to building healthier communities. We’re excited to partner with Zenni and Chase to show students that wellness is interconnected. Whether we’re talking about taking care of our eyes, our minds, or our relationships with one another, giving young people the tools and space to prioritize their wellbeing can make a meaningful difference.”

A Combined Student Initiative

The New York City event builds on Zenni and Stokes’ work on access to vision care for young people. It combined vision screenings, eyewear and peer-led mental wellness resources at the school.