Several years ago we had a partnership with a Vision Group in Knoxville and we were able to send our neighbors to them for assistance with glasses. Following an exam, the neighbor was fitted with glasses and walked out seeing much better. We were devastated when we lost that opportunity due to a change in company policy. Recently United Way referred a neighbor to us who needed an eye exam. Through this experience we found VISION USA. Our first neighbor was patient as we learned the ropes and completed the necessary paperwork. All application and verification had to be done on-line. Our neighbor was completely unfamiliar with computers and was unable to complete the forms. Forms could not be mailed or faxed. Once the paperwork was sent, we received a confirmation email quickly and our neighbor was given an Optometrist to work with. He had a limited time to make the appointment but that was done by phone. What a blessing to have access to vision care once again.

Just imagine..... you move to Tennessee, specifically Blount County because you are offered a better job with the same employer. Things look great and you move your family here. Your husband gets a job at a local plant and things are looking really good. And then it happens, all at once...... there is a lay off at the plant and the "better" job is not really better. After arriving you find that your certification from the other state is not enough and you have to take tests. Studying for the test is difficult because you are not allowed to bring the material home (it's confidential) to study. The tests keep coming every month and on the last one you fail by one point. Oh my...... now what!?!! First you find that you can't retake the exam for 12 months and you can't keep your job unless you passed so you are now out of work as well. Two college degrees in the household and finding jobs has become a nightmare. Savings are spent trying to make ends meet. Finally you lose your apartment and are living in your car. It appears that your life is falling apart. Then a spark of hope..... promise of a new job for both. Reality sets in, there are uniforms to press and baths that need to happen and a good night's rest in a safe place would really make a difference. Who might help? Enter Good Neighbors...... when Bonnie and Jim came in, referred by a church, they were worn out and filled with anxiety. They had no idea if GN could help at all. It turns out that we could help in amazing ways! First we did manage to provide shelter for a few days so that they were in a safe place and were able to have basic needs met. Then we referred them to the local food pantries and Welcome Table to help with meals. And most importantly we were able to refer the through Family promise to the Rapid Re-housing Program where they were able to secure an apartment and utilities. Encountering this couple a few weeks later was a blessing. Settled in an apartment, working and planning for the future with big smiles..... fabulous!