View the latest information on Lions/LCIF hurricane relief

Dear Lions of the United States,

In the early morning hours of Monday, August 29th, residents of the Gulf Coast area of the United States – from Louisiana to the Florida Panhandle – were hit with the onslaught of Hurricane Katrina. The Category 4 storm, with 145 mile-per-hour winds, a foot of rain, and a 20-foot storm surge, ravaged coastline areas, causing enormous loss of life and catastrophic damage to homes and businesses. The city of New Orleansis currently 80 percent under water. Even as I write this letter, the devastation is still being assessed. It may be weeks before we know the true magnitude of this storm. The Convention Committee is monitoring the situation very closely. Updates will be posted on the Lions Clubs International Web site.

Lions everywhere join the world community in expressing our deep condolences as you come to terms with this tragedy. You are not alone in your grief, nor are you alone in your efforts to put affected communities back together and provide for survivors of nature’s wrath.

LCIF is standing by, ready to assist with both short and long-term needs. A special fund has been established. Lions wishing to donate should write “Hurricane Katrina Relief” on the memo line of their checks. Updates will be provided on both the LCI and LCIF Web sites. Please be sure to read the message from LCIF Chairperson Kusiak on Hurricane Katrina.

We are all deeply saddened by the enormous loss of life and overall devastation. Our thoughts and prayers remain with you as you work to rebuild lives and communities.

Sincerely,

Ashok Mehta