Lions Hope for Haiti

Lions Hope for Haiti is Lions and LCIF working together to provide relief and hope for the people of Haiti. Following the devastating earthquakes, Lions around the world responded generously and quickly to the LCIF designated fund for this disaster.  To date, Lions Hope for Haiti has mobilized more than US$625,000. Donations continue to pour in from individuals, clubs and districts.

LCIF is working directly with Lions of Haiti as well as Lions in neighboring countries to assess the immediate needs and also develop a long-term reconstruction plan. LCIF Chairperson Al Brandel and his wife Dr. Maureen Murphy are currently in the Dominican Republic to lead a team delivering urgently needed supplies into Haiti today, and meeting with local Lions to develop an immediate and long-term plan for assistance.

Lions around the world are also assisting:

• Lions in neighboring Caribbean countries are sending cargo containers of targeted supplies through connections with transportation companies.

• Lions in Sweden are sending large tents through the Swedish government to provide housing for those who are now homeless as well as relief workers, as they did for the China earthquake. The tents will arrive into Haiti today, and Swedish, Haitian and Dominican Republic Lions will set up the tents in needed areas.

• Lions from District A-9, Ontario, Canada were in the area when the earthquake hit, helping to establish a clean water system for an orphanage, and established a make-shift medical clinic, treating 600 people.

• Lions are contributing generously, including: US$86,000 pledged from Lions in Norway; US$20,000 from Lions in China; US$14,000 from District 105-I, Ireland; US$100,000 from District 63, which includes several neighboring islands to Haiti.

Like previous disasters, LCIF is not only committed to meeting the immediate needs of the people, but will be working through the Lions in the region to provide relief for years to come. Similar to other disasters, Lions hope to rebuild homes and hospitals, redevelop the eye care delivery system, and provide help for disabled, including those disabled as a result of this disaster.