The Bowral Lions Club is collecting second hand glasses to send to disadvantaged children around the world as part of Lions Recycle for Sight, which is an international initiative.

Lions Australia has collected 2.5 million pairs of glasses so far.

Club president Steve Kelly said Bowral Lions aimed to collect 1000 glasses.

"I think 1000 is well within our means," he said.

"Initially we were only going to collect for about three months, but the support from the community has been overwhelming."

There are a variety of collection points around Bowral, including Claytons Pharmacy and Bowral Mowers.

The glasses are then sent up to Queensland where there's an optometrist with all the equipment to check them and clean them.

"There are people in a correctional institution in Queensland who have been brought on board and trained to clean and package the glasses to send overseas," Mr Kelly said.

One pair of glasses can make a huge difference to an impoverished child.

"Glasses can mean improved employment opportunities, self-esteem and education," Mr Kelly said.

"I'm enthusiastic about this project because it's fun and there's no onus on anyone's time or money, but it can have significant results for a person's future."

Each year, the Bowral Lions Club contributes about $30,000 to the Highlands through fundraising.

To join the Bowral Lions Club, contact club secretary Tom Dolan on 0434 191 433 or 4872 4553, or email bowrallionsclub@ hotmail.com