When catastrophes of major proportions strike a region of the world, LCIF responds with grants to assist with long-term reconstruction projects, as well as to meet immediate needs.

As of September 12, 2001, LCIF has established the September 11 Disaster Victims Fund... commits US$100,000 as first step.

To date, LCIF has received approximately US$1.2 million in designated donations from Lions' worldwide, with the Japanese Lions contributing a record amount of US$1 million. Together with an LCIF Major Catastrophe Grant of US$500,000, a total of US$1.7 million is now available for major reconstruction programs to help restore hope for the hundreds of thousands of victims presently living in makeshift shelters.

The Lions of Multiple District 323 (India), led by Past International President Rohit Mehta, are finalizing plans to rebuild up to 1000 low-cost homes in the worst-affected areas of Bhuj, Kutch Province and Bet Dwarka. Another rebuilding initiative will include reconstruction of schools in the Saurashtra region where nearly all the existing schools were flattened.

Meanwhile, more than 5,000 families in 25 of the hardest-hit villages are receiving immediate relief aid from Lions, including regular shipments of food, medicines and other necessities.

The Lions of MD 118 are finishing a series of large-scale rebuilding projects using US$2.06 million in LCIF funding, which includes both Major Catastrophe Grants and designated donations from concerned Lions. Completed projects include the development of three modular home villages, as well as reconstruction of three primary schools, a university dormitory, a gymnasium, a health center and a children's day care center.

A total of US$265,000 has been raised for the terrible earthquake in El Salvador and the devastating landslide that buried much of Santa Tecla. With the assistance of Past District Governor Louis Dominguez Calderon, the Lions of Spain have raised US$60,000. Together with LCIF's Major Catastrophe Grant of US$100,000 and a grant of US$25,000 from Pfizer Corporation, the Lions of El Salvador have initiated projects to rebuild three schools and to build a new patient ward at the public hospital in Santa Tecla. The hospital project is of critical importance, as hundreds of patients - many in critical condition - are being housed in makeshift tents in the hospital's parking lot.

More than US$500,000 in LCIF funding, including a US$400,000 Major Catastrophe Grant, is being used to rebuild 160 homes, 5 schools and an orphanage in the aftermath of one of the worst cyclones to hit India.

Since the June 16 earthquake, LCIF has mobilized US$33,000 for rebuilding projects on top of Emergency Grant funding already sent to the devastated areas. The Lions of Sweden have generously donated nearly US$23,000. The funds will be used to provide five schools in Moquegua and Tacna with modular classrooms. Nearly 70 percent of the buildings in the region were damaged, and 200 people lost their lives.

In all countries, Lions will continue to be involved as long-term reconstruction projects are developed.

If you wish to donate to one of the countries listed above, make the check or bank draft payable to "LCIF." On the face of the document, please indicate the name of the country or disaster you wish to help. For example, write, "Gujarat Earthquake Relief" or "El Salvador Earthquake."

LCIF thanks you for your generous support.