Dear Lion,
Like me, I'm sure that you have been following the news reports of the devastating earthquake in Christchurch, New Zealand. Much of the city is still without water and sewerage systems and aftershocks continue. Thousands have been left homeless as a result of the destruction.
Right now Margit and I are on our way to New Zealand to meet with Lions and view their current relief efforts. We will also meet with the mayor and Red Cross to discuss future plans.
I continue to be impressed by their commitment to helping their neighbors, despite many being affected themselves. At an emergency meeting of the Earthquake Committee last night, there was one Lion who had damage to his house, his place of work was closed, he had no power, water or sewerage connections, yet was still attending a Lions meeting to see how he could assist the citizens of Christchurch. This exemplifies Lions' "We Serve" motto. Lions have been providing assistance since the devastating earthquake February 22, and LCIF is providing US$110,000 to help Lions in providing relief to their communities.
In the past week Lions services include:
· Delivering 500 portable toilets to Doctors Surgery's, Nurse Maud Assn. and households in eastern suburbs
· Going door to door in the suburbs with the Red Cross to find those who need assistance
· Providing grocery and fuel vouchers to families in need as well as food, bedding and water
· Volunteering at welfare centres in Christchurch and Timaru
· Raising $34,000 during a weekend fundraiser
· Distributing meals through a food caravan in Christchurch
· Lions from neighboring areas traveling to Christchurch to assist in relief projects, such as door-to-door outreach, delivering food and helping with clean-up
· Lions in neighboring towns are organizing dinners for displaced families and housing for Lions in need
· Staffing two daily shifts to assist at the national Red Cross coordination office in Wellington
· Delivering a 40,000 litre tanker of fresh water to the suburbs of Christchurch
· Providing weekend breaks to families to escape from the city for two days
You know well that Lions Clubs greatest asset is our volunteers-you and 1.35 million Lions around the world. Wherever there is a need, there is a Lions club nearby, ready to respond with their hearts and hands. In the case of disasters, we are the first to offer help, and the last to leave.
Lions, I ask for your help in making the hope for a brighter tomorrow a reality for the people of New Zealand.The most effective and immediate way to help is through a designated donation to LCIF for New Zealand relief.
From New Zealand to Haiti to Pakistan, Lions and our foundation are rebuilding homes and lives. Lions are building bridges of compassion with our hearts and hands, in New Zealand and all around the world.
With my cordial regards,
Eberhard J. Wirfs
Chairperson, Lions Clubs International Foundation |
