LCIF Aids Pakistan Earthquake Victims

Dear Lions,

To date, LCIF has collected a total of US$910,000 for MD-305 Lions earthquake relief and reconstruction projects in Pakistan. A US$891,666 plan to construct 150 homes, vital infrastructure such as roads, and a water supply system for people left homeless by the earthquake in the village of Anwar Shareef has been approved. Additionally, funding has been approved for a limited amount of capacity building seminars and training workshops for the villagers on subjects including carpentry and building skills, earthquake resistant building practices, and environmental sustainability. In July, a first disbursement totaling US$400,000 was sent to the Pakistan Lions.

Because so many Lions around the world have asked how they can help, an Earthquake Relief Fund for Lions, Lions clubs and others to contribute designated funds for South Asia disaster relief has also been established. Mail a check payable to LCIF and write "Pakistan earthquake relief" in the memo field. Send the check to LCIF, 300 W. 22nd St., Oak Brook, IL 60523, USA, Attn.: Donor Services. Or donate by credit card with MasterCard, Visa or American Express by calling LCIF at 630-571-5466, ext. 517 or 554. Lines are open between 8 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. CST.

A committee has been put in place, chaired by Past International Director Nilofer Bakhtiar. This committee will assess needs in the area and help direct Lion relief efforts.

Lions in Pakistan and India have responded to the disaster with remarkable service and generosity. To cite just a few examples, Districts 323 D-1, D-2 and A-3 sent 700 tents. District 305 S-1 sent 16 doctors/medical personnel and two truckloads of food, beds, tents, medicine and other vital items, and the Sialkot City Campus Club in District 305 N-2 sent a huge shipment of goods.

Lions from outside the region also have greatly assisted earthquake victims. For example, Lions in Northern Ireland (District 105I) shipped to Pakistan three large containers of clothes and collected enough money to purchase 1,000 tents. Lions in Japan donated US$500,000 to LCIF for earthquake relief. Lions of Norway (Multiple District 104) donated US$75,000 and Lions of Belgium (Multiple District 112) donated
US$75,000.

We are all deeply saddened by the enormous loss of life and overall devastation. Our thoughts and prayers go out to all in the affected regions of Pakistan and India.

With a Passion to Serve,

Chairperson Dr. Ashok Mehta

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