The Lions Step In
During an annual Lions eye mission to Ensenada, Mexico, doctors examined 800 men, women and children – including Eduardo – and distributed eyeglasses free of charge to those who needed them. Lions of California and Lions of Mexico worked together to make this mission possible. California Lions collected and prepared eyeglasses, sent eyeglasses to Lions in Mexico for the mission and organized the mission team that drove to Ensenada. Lions of Mexico worked with the local government, police and places of worship to invite those in need, and provided the mission location, tents and translators. They also provided assistance during the mission.
Seeing is Believing
“I am so happy,” said Elena Galindo. “Not only has this helped our family financially, I also got to see the smile on my son’s face when he put his glasses on.” Those who are fortunate enough to be part of a mission team also benefit by learning, meeting new people and feeling the reward of helping those in need. “No amount of money could replace the satisfaction that comes from these missions – seeing the expressions on these faces and really meeting a need,” said Raul Fernandez of the Ensenada Todos Santos Lions Club.
Facts and Figures
Lions are working to expand their efforts by having a second annual eye mission to focus on the vision needs of children. Lions of Mexico are also planning to open a permanent clinic north of Ensenada in Tijuana.
