Many of us have watched our televisions and seen the horrible devastation in Turkey and Syria due to the earthquakes which ravaged buildings along the border. Unfortunately, this area has already seen their share of problems with the recent influx of refugees due to the conflicts in the area.

As of this writing, there are reports of more than 12,000 people having lost their lives, more than 60,000 injured, and nearly a million people who have been displaced as a result of the devastation caused by the earthquake. While people often hear “where there is a need, there is a Lion” it is situations like this which emphasize our global reach.

Immediately following reports of the earthquake, Lions Clubs International Foundation (LCIF) immediately issued $200,000 (US Currency) in emergency grants to Lions Clubs in Turkey to help them address the immediate needs of the communities they serve. This is merely the tip of the iceberg in terms of what will be needed to help these victims rebuild their lives, their homes, and their businesses.

The Holliston Lions Club has already committed to donating $1,500 to LCIF this month and we will be discussing additional donations in the following days and weeks. LCIF committed to helping the communities who are impacted by these earthquakes long-term, and this is where we could use your help.

Lions Clubs International Foundation (LCIF) was begun in 1968 to take service to new levels by tackling global problems as well as assisting Lions with large-scale local humanitarian projects. Through LCIF, Lions meet the needs of local and global communities. LCIF has evolved to become an internationally recognized humanitarian organization and the largest blindness prevention organization. LCIF can leverage its funds by partnering with other non-governmental organizations and corporations that share a common mission. The Foundation grants, on average, $30 million annually to Lions Clubs across the globe.

Every quarter and dollar will make a difference to those struggling to recover from this tragedy. You can help the Holliston Lions make an even bigger difference. All donations to LCIF are tax deductible because they are a registered 501(c)(3) corporation. You can help us make a difference by sending a check to the Holliston Lions Club to help support our efforts and make sure the people in this area get the help they need from our foundation.

If you are willing to donate please make your check payable to “LCIF” and put “Turkey/Syria” in the memo section. Please mail your check to Holliston Lions Club, PO Box 6112, Holliston MA 01746. We will be accepting these donations through March 31, 2023.

To learn more about what the Holliston Lions Club does in our community (and beyond) please visit our website at https://hollistonmalions.org/  Please watch this space for additional information about upcoming fundraising events which will be dedicated to providing additional support for LCIF. Thank you in advance for your support.