Eye Foundation of America’s Global Charity Gala in New Jersey: Accelerating the Fight Against Childhood Blindness

EFA Fundraiser Will Double Impact: Every Dollar Matched to Prevent Childhood Blindness

New Jersey, USA | April 2026 — The Eye Foundation of America (EFA), a leader in pediatric eye care and blindness prevention, will host a landmark Global Charity Gala in New Jersey on April 18, 2026. This vital event unites philanthropists, healthcare leaders, and global advocates in a shared mission: ending childhood blindness through prevention, innovation, and collective action.

Childhood blindness remains a devastating global challenge, undermining the education, employment, and well-being of millions. “Childhood blindness not only robs children of sight but also their potential to learn, grow, and thrive,” stated Dr. V.K. Raju, MD, Founder President of EFA and Chairman of Goutami Eye Institute. “For nearly five decades, our mission has remained clear—to ensure that no child in this world is denied the gift of sight.”

Research indicates that three-fourths of visually impaired children never attend school, and blindness slashes employability by half. In India alone, nearly 600,000 premature infants are born annually, with over 200,000 at risk for Retinopathy of Prematurity (ROP)—a preventable cause of blindness. Preventive strategies such as early screening, timely treatment, and community awareness are critical to safeguarding the futures of these vulnerable children.

At the heart of this year’s gala is a powerful promise: every dollar raised will be matched, doubling the impact. Dr. Raju explained, “Since 1977, we have worked tirelessly across India, Africa, and more than 25 countries, building systems of care, training professionals, and reaching the most underserved communities.” Dr. Sam Madulla, PharmD and EFA Board Member, will amplify the contributions, ensuring the fundraiser benefits millions and propels the movement forward.

Dr. Sam Maddula, PharmD, emphasized the profound ripple effect of sight restoration: “This mission is deeply personal and profoundly global. From one child to millions, the ripple effect of restoring sight is transformational—impacting education, livelihoods, and dignity. With the support of Rotary, Lions, and our global community, we are closer than ever to making a world without childhood blindness a reality.”

Since its inception in 1977, EFA has been at the forefront of restoring sight and transforming lives. The upcoming fundraiser, spearheaded by EFA Board Members, aims to expand high-impact initiatives in India—scaling the ROP program and developing the new Goutami Eye Institute, a state-of-the-art facility serving thousands of vulnerable children.

“By investing in prevention, EFA saves sight and builds brighter futures,” affirmed Dr. Leela Raju, MD, President of EFA. “For nearly five decades, EFA has stood for one unwavering belief—that no child should suffer blindness due to preventable or treatable conditions. This gala is not just a fundraiser; it is a movement. With every contribution matched, we are not just raising funds—we are multiplying hope, impact, and the future of thousands of children.”

A defining highlight of the gala is EFA’s commitment: every dollar raised will be matched, accelerating the journey toward a world without childhood blindness. “Premature babies deserve a fair chance at life—and vision is central to that future,” said Sam Maddali, RPh, Board Member. “The expansion of the Goutami Eye Institute and the scaling of the ROP program represent a critical leap forward. Together with our partners and donors, we are building systems that will save sight for generations.”

This transformative initiative is powered by strategic partnerships with Rotary International and Lions Clubs International Foundation, amplifying global reach and credibility. Their collaboration enhances EFA’s effectiveness in delivering preventive care and building sustainable systems for child eye health.

A Call to Global Action

Dr. Raju underscored the movement’s urgency: “This fundraiser is not just about infrastructure or programs—it is about sustaining a global movement of compassion, commitment, and collective action. The new Goutami facility and the expansion of the ROP program represent our next leap forward. With the support of our partners and donors, I firmly believe that a world without childhood blindness is not just a vision—it is within our reach.”

The Charity Gala is both a celebration of EFA’s 49-year legacy and a rallying call for action. With matched giving, robust partnerships, and a clear preventive vision, this initiative offers one of the most impactful opportunities to advance child health and global equity. “Together, we can ensure every child has the gift of sight—and the opportunity to dream, learn, and thrive,” said Dr. Leela Raju.

About Eye Foundation of America (EFA)

Founded by Dr. V.K. Raju in 1977, EFA is a global nonprofit dedicated to eliminating preventable blindness, with a strong focus on pediatric eye care. EFA has transformed millions of lives through surgeries, screenings, and capacity-building programs across India, Africa, and beyond. Registered and operational in the United States, United Kingdom, and India, EFA’s reach extends through hospitals, screening programs, training initiatives, and public health collaborations. For more information, visit www.eyefoundationofamerica.org