Indian Ocean Tsunami 26th December 2004    

This webpage details briefings of the relief involvement through Lions Clubs International Foundation, updated 10.11.05. 

Lions Clubs in District 105w can make donations to 'Lions Clubs International District 105W' marked on the back 'Tsunami Appeal, Phase Two - Houses or School-in-a-box' as appropriate see Briefing 14 and sent to the District Treasurer. Personal donations with the Gift Aid tax reclaim form.

The District Treasurer has forwarded £57,000 of Club Donations for  Lions Clubs International Foundation, 'South Asia Tsunami Disaster Fund'

 

 

  Chippenham Club President Lion Surinder Malhotra presenting their donation for the South Asia Tsunami Disaster Fund to IP District Governor Lion Alan Denham.

 

 

        'Hands across the Sea - our help is needed'

 

  

Picture by Lion Nicolas Seow in Malaysia from a series of pictures at Briefing No.5 below. Lions in Malaysia are organizing relief efforts and ensuring that vital supplies reach the people most in need.

 

 

 

I am happy to report that LCIF and Lions are making great progress in helping victims of the tsunami in South Asia . As you may recall, LCIF mobilized US$15 million for relief and reconstruction. Our plan was to construct suitable, sturdy and comfortable homes, as well as schools, health clinics, hospitals, water wells and child welfare centers.  

Here is a progress report on the four nations in which local Lions are engaged in reconstruction.  

In Indonesia , LCIF has disbursed US$418,375. The Indonesian Lions Tsunami Committee has successfully established two Lions Villages in Aceh Province . LCIF has funded 320 homes with electricity, village restrooms and six deep-water wells. Upcoming projects in Indonesia include economic revival activities in the Lions villages and housing for tsunami victims in Banda Aceh, the capital.  

Along with Past International Director Barry Palmer and an LCIF staff person, I recently traveled to the Lions Village in Seunuddon to check on 200 Lions homes there.  I can tell you that the Lions did a great job of building these homes and that the occupants are extremely grateful to the Lions. Families have a roof over their heads and are enjoying a sense of normalcy again. The smiles on their faces when meeting Lions tell all you need to know about how effective Lions and LCIF have been in South Asia .  

In Sri Lanka , the Lions plan to build 318 homes at five locations at a cost of US$1.25 million. In the Western part of the island, 40 homes will be built at Modera/M’kuliya, Colombo , and 70 homes at Bandaragama, Panadura.  In the South, 20 homes will be built at Dodangoda, Kalutara. In the East, 105 homes are planned for Kuchhaveli, Trincomalee, and 83 homes are slated for Pothuvil, Ampara.  In July 2005, LCIF staff visited Sri Lanka to inspect initial tsunami reconstruction work and LCIF disbursed US$412,500 in September to get the building started. The Sri Lankan Lions are expected to request additional funding to build more homes. 

In Thailand , LCIF has disbursed US$702,583. The Thailand Tsunami Committee is overseeing the construction of 195 homes at two Lions villages on two separate islands. The first village on Lanta Island is scheduled to be completed in December.  

In India , the Lions MD-324 Tsunami Disaster Relief Committee presented a US$1.25 million plan to build homes, community rehabilitation centers, potable water facilities, primary health centers, schools and an orphanage. The majority of resources will be directed toward the Lions districts on the East coast from Chennai to Nagapatinam that were most affected by the tsunami.  LCIF staff visited India in July to meet with key Lions, and LCIF disbursed US$412,500 to the Relief Committee in September so that it could begin reconstruction work.  

Our reconstruction work in South Asia is helping thousands of people with little means get back on their feet and resume their lives. We will help thousands more in the near future. Thanks to the generosity of Lions worldwide and the untiring service of Lions in South Asia , people who suffered the wrath of a natural disaster are starting over with a new home and are making the most of their opportunity.  

Yours in service, Clement F. Kusiak 2005-2006 LCIF Chairperson

In the North Aceh province of Indonesia, those left homeless by the tsunami dwell in open tents at overcrowded refugee camps. In April, 100 families moved into homes built by Lions. The 100 wooden homes, all with two bedrooms, are believed to be the first built by a non-governmental organization in Indonesia after the disaster. Other charitable groups have been stifled by bureaucratic red tape and the simple inability of government officials to coordinate the massive rebuilding needed, according to news reports.

 

But the Lions in and near Panton Labu found a way. “The government works very slowly,” said local Lion Dicky Lie in an e-mail. “Lions have this opportunity because the location is very far from the Capital. We were guided by one of the local parliament people with local organization. We are directly on the spot. We are local people, so easy to settle the case.”

 

South Asian Lions, in some instances supported by Lions Clubs International Foundation, will embark on a whole lot more rebuilding not only in Indonesia but also in Sri Lanka , Thailand and India . Lions worldwide responded as never before to a natural disaster. The US$12 million mobilized by LCIF will enable Lions to build homes, schools and orphanages. Lions also will provide psychological treatment and physical rehabilitation for children and adults. Lions in Sri Lanka plan to build 3,000 homes. Five hundred were under construction as of late May with occupancy expected by August. Most of the homes will be given to fisherman and their families. The 550-square-foot houses have cement-based walls and hard wood roofs with terra cotta tiles.

 

Sri Lankan Lions met with the country’s president personally and she authorized government officials to allocate the needed land to Lions. Lions also are working closely with the Prime Minister’s Office, the Social Services Department and TAFREN (Task Force for Rebuilding the Nation). International Director Asoka De Z. Gunasekera of Sri Lanka, who has many ties to the government, has been instrumental in moving the rebuilding forward.

 

LCIF will support the home construction undertaken by Lions in South Asia. The foundation is currently reviewing the specific rebuilding plans proposed by committees of leading Lions in the four countries. In many instances Lions will aid tsunami victims in remote or underserved regions that other aid organizations will bypass.

 

Lions in South Asia also continue to provide relief camps with vital supplies. Their efforts are supported by their own funds, by Lions from elsewhere and by LCIF. Lions in Medan, Indonesia, for example, are giving rice and powdered milk to tsunami orphans, thanks to a US$41,400 grant from LCIF

 

An LCIF-funded eyeglass mission to South Asia has shown the kind of results Lions can quickly achieve. Many South Asians lost their eyeglasses when the tsunami destroyed their homes, and few can afford a new pair. Past International Director Bill Iannaccone led a 12-member eyeglass team to Sri Lanka in February. They dispensed 1,800 pairs of glasses. More importantly, they brought along 60,000 pairs of eyeglasses and taught 125 Sri Lankan Lions how to use two donated lensometers and run an eyeglass recycling operation.

 

You will be proud to learn that Lions in South Asia are quickly moving ahead with rebuilding after the tsunami. Lions in Indonesia have built 100 homes, believed to be the first built by a non-governmental organization in Indonesia after the disaster. Lions in Sri Lanka have 500 homes under construction with occupancy expected in two to three months.

This is just the beginning of a large rebuilding effort by Lions. These initial homes have been paid for through the resources of Lions in South Asia . LCIF also will support the building of thousands of homes by Lions in South Asia . The foundation is currently reviewing comprehensive rebuilding plans proposed by committees of leading Lions in Indonesia , Sri Lanka , India and Thailand . In many instances Lions plan to aid tsunami victims in remote or underserved regions that other aid organizations will bypass.  

LCIF has mobilized up to US$12 million for reconstruction and recovery in South Asia . Lions worldwide donated up to US$9 million to LCIF, which committed an additional US$2.5 million from its reserves as well as the US$470,000 in aid it disbursed within weeks of the tragedy. The funds will enable Lions to build homes, schools and orphanages as well as to provide psychological treatment and physical rehabilitation for children and adults.  

Other charitable groups in South Asia have been stifled by bureaucratic red tape. according to news reports. But Lions’ ties to their community leaders and government officials have enabled Lions to move ahead with rebuilding. For example, Sri Lankan Lions met with the country’s president personally and she authorized government officials to allocate to Lions the land on which the new homes were built.  

Lions in South Asia also continue to provide relief camps with vital supplies. Their efforts are supported by their own funds, by Lions from elsewhere and by LCIF. Lions in Medan , Indonesia , for example, are giving rice and powdered milk to tsunami orphans, thanks to a US$41,400 grant from LCIF  

The unprecedented number of donations to LCIF for tsunami relief has slowed our processing of Melvin Jones Fellowship applications. We sincerely apologize for this. To return to our normal turnaround time, we have hired additional staff and current staff are working extra hours.  

The response of Lions to the tsunami once again has shown our ability to serve is second to none. It’s a good time to be a Lion! Our communities need us as never before and we meet the challenges before us.  

Yours in Service,

Dr. Tae-Sup Lee,

LCIF Chairperson  

 

After the tsunami disaster in South Asia the Lions swung into action, no where was this more true than in our District. The District Governor quickly set up an appeal mechanism for Clubs to make donations through LCIF and to date in our District this has raised over £57,000 which forms part of £652,965 raised in the Multiple District 105.

It was subsequently decided that our effort in our District 105W should be in three parts. The first was the original appeal designated Phase I which has now been followed by Phase II where the hope is for Clubs in 105W to raise enough money to purchase 15 houses at £600 per house in the three Districts affected by the Tsunami at a total cost of £27,000. If your Club wishes to donate money to Phase II cheques should be sent to the District Treasurer made to ‘Lions Clubs International District 105W’, suitably endorsed on the back. A donation of £600 or multiples thereof will entitle that Club to have a suitably inscribed plaque affixed to the house(s) built.

The third part was to be to provide quantities of School-in-a-Box to the Districts affected by the Tsunami. Our concept was for primary schools to sponsor one or more kits so that the children could feel that they were really helping. These boxes are supplied through the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) at a cost of £150 per box. However, as Lions will be aware, the United Nations has stated that they already have more than enough specified funds to cover their work in the region, and as a direct consequence Lions are, unfortunately, unable to request UNICEF to provide these boxes to specific countries in South Asia .

It is still thought to be an excellent idea to continue with the project to supply kits to both promote the Lions and encourage young children to help others. Therefore you are being requested to consider contacting primary schools in your area to see if they would sponsor one, or more, kits. The cost, as stated, of each kit is £150 and cheques should be sent to the District Treasurer made to ‘Lions Clubs International District 105W’, endorsed on the back ‘phase II tsunami appeal – School in a Box’. The 105W School-in-a-Box project has been authorized by our District Governor Lion Alan and endorsed by District Governor Elect Lion Jim.  

The following sections outline the School-in-a-Box project and the Lions relationship with the United Nations.  

The School-in-a-Box Project.  

Worldwide there are more than 120 million children who do not have the opportunity or means to attend school. A partnership between the Lions Clubs International and UNICEF is working to reduce the vast number of children without a basic education. In a memorandum of understanding LCIF and UNICEF stipulate that the “main area of cooperation shall be on a programmes and projects for youth, with special emphasis on street children and School-in-a-Box (formerly known as Edukits)”.  

The lockable and lightweight storage boxes contains rulers, crayons etc, as detailed below The kits cover literacy and numerical skills that should be learned in the first through fourth grades and are designed for a six-month time period. Each box is adapted to meet the needs of students in different countries with information on land mines or cholera included when necessary and are written in the local language.  

The kits enable classrooms to be established anywhere, whether under a tree or in a tent. A return to school for children ensures a sense of familiarity, promotes tolerance and offers a safe environment for children in unstable situations. The kits can bring hope to the children that have the chance to go back-to-school.  

The kits were originally developed by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) and partners in Rwanda in the aftermath of the 1994 genocide. In 2003 the project supplied 3,200 tones of school supplies to Afghanistan enabling 4.2 million children to return to school. Similarly the delivery of 1,000 kits in six African countries gave 250,000 children a chance at a sound education. Kits have now been distributed to Angola , Bosnia , Cambodia , Liberia , Somalia , Haiti , Iraq , Sri Lanka and Zambia as well as many other regions and countries. In 1997 LCIF Trustees agreed to accept cheques from Multi Districts to support the School-in-a-Box project.  

The supplying of these kits “helps to create and foster a spirit of understanding among the peoples of the world”. Each year LCIF presents a cheque to UNICEF at Lions Day with the United Nations.  

The United Nations and Lions Clubs International.  

It was on the 24th October 1945 that U.S. President Harry S. Truman, Britain ’s Prime Minister Sir Winston Churchill and other world leaders signed the charter which created the UN. At this time the Lions Clubs International was already an established worldwide organization.  

In the same year, Lions founder Melvin Jones and Past International Presidents Fred W. Smith and D.A. Skeen were invited to help develop the UN non-governmental organization (NGO) charter. During the ensuing years, Lions have aided UN programs including UNICEF UNESCO and WHO (World Health Organization) projects.  

During the ensuing years, the two organizations have co-operated on many humanitarian ventures, Lions providing aid and manpower to the various UN Organizations. From the beginning the relationship between Lions Clubs International and the UN has been limited to humanitarian endeavors. In keeping with its stated Objects Lions Clubs International has no involvement in the neither political nor security affairs of the UN.  

School-in-a-Box Contents  

Teacher Materials

Student Materials

Ball point pens and carry bag

48 boxes of 8 crayons each

Six boxes of chalk

144 pencils

Two teacher editions of student exercise books

120 erasers

200 exercise books

Assorted pens, markers and flipchart

100 plastic rulers

Scissors, tape measure and ruler

100 pencil sharpeners

Two tins of black chalkboard paint and brush

40 reusable slates

144 slate pencils

Eraser for chalkboard

80 book bags for children

Set of three posters (multiplication table, number table & alphabet table

40 sets of child scissors

Set of plastic covered wooden cubes

 

Register book

 

Guidelines for “School-in-a-Box” kit

 

Metal box, lockable for storage

 

  A thought  

If, as we hope, you will be able to get one or more schools to sponsor  a kit or kits you may like to use this as a means to get an article in you local paper of even parish magazine.  

     Phase One of the Tsunami Appeal to provide immediate LCIF relief aid will close 19th March coincidental to receipt of funds into the District Treasurer having all but dried up.  I am advised by Lion David the funds to date, donated by you for LCIF aid, totalled over £57,000 and you are to be congratulated for that effort.  The exact amount raised will be advised to me just as soon as the final tranche of funds have been remitted to LCIF and you will be advised accordingly. Thus we have met in some measure the immediate need for funds in the disaster areas and it is now time to look at the medium term needs.

     We are advised by the Chairman of Council, MD306 in Sri Lanka , that the Lions of the area are wishing to build 100 houses in each of the three Districts at a cost of £600 per house with the building land having been donated by Government. The Appeals Committee of our District 105W has proposed we now launch the Phase Two Appeal.  

     Phase Two of the Tsunami Appeal has an overall objective to financially support the building of 15 houses in each of the three Lions Districts at a total cost of £27,000.  

     LCIF are aware of this project in Sri Lanka and will receive and redirect our designated funds raised for the project in similar fashion to the phase one of the Tsunami appeal. By routing the funds via LCIF we can be assured that the money so remitted will be spent in accordance with our wishes with LCIF overseeing the disposal of those funds. Therefore, I am requesting Clubs to consider favourably this appeal suggesting that perhaps a special fund-raising event be organised or that the proceeds of an event already organised be designated for this medium term South Asia Tsunami appeal.

     To assist, you may care to issue a press release, there is plenty of support information on the Tsunami webpage of the District website, which can be suitably amended to reflect this particular appeal and using the opportunity to advise the public that Lions within this District have raised over £57,000 whist Lions within the British Isles and Ireland have raised £652,965 and globally the total raised to-date is £2.2million.

     To run alongside the main phase two appeal, I would like Clubs to consider approaching Primary and Secondary Schools, with a view to each School raising funds sufficient to purchase an Edukit (School in a Box) at a cost of £150 per box.  

What is an Edukit ? 

     Each box, arranged through UNICEF, consists of :- Exercise books, pencils, erasers, scissors, wooden teaching clock, plastic cubes for counting, set of 3 laminated posters     (alphabet, multiplication and number tables) and black paint to make a blackboard.  The kit is supplied in a locked aluminium box; the lid can double as a blackboard when coated with the special paint included in the kit. Using a locally developed teaching guide and curriculum, teachers can establish makeshift classrooms anywhere

     The purpose of the kit is to ensure the continuation of children’s education, an important way to secure safety of the millions of children affected by the Tsunami and provided with a sense of routine and semblance of normality.

     The contents of the kit are not culturally specific and will be supplemented by locally purchased products, such as books in local languages, toys, games and musical instruments.

It is thought that local schools here would like to help another ‘school’ within the disaster area and we will consider giving a Certificate to each school taking part in this appeal.  

     Donation of Phase Two Funds collected in respect of this appeal should be forwarded to the District Treasurer, Lion David McKirdy with cheques made payable to Lions Clubs International District 105W and endorsed on the reverse ‘Tsunami Appeal, Phase Two – Houses or School-in-a-box’ as appropriate.  

     We will liaise with UNICEF as to the minimum quantity of kits we should order at any one time and purchase accordingly. So far as the Houses are concerned, again we will seek guidance as to the value of each tranche of money sent.  

    The call this year on our ability to respond as Ordinary People doing Amazing Things has been tremendous and I thank you all and your families. I would like to end my term as DG on a high and hope, with your efforts, that this appeal will be done and dusted by 8th July and those in need across the water receive our hand of friendship from Lions District 105W.  

Lion Alan Denham ( DG )

 

By now you are all too familiar with the devastation and suffering caused by the tsunami. But I want to make sure another image comes to mind as well when thinking of the disaster. This is an image of a Lion writing a cheque to LCIF. Never have Lions responded so generously, so quickly, so selflessly to a global disaster. We at LCIF and LCI have been humbled by the massive outpouring of support.

To date, Lions have donated more than US$2.2 million to LCIF for tsunami relief. More than $1.5 million has been pledged by Lions' districts. LCIF will easily make its initial commitment of US$5 million for tsunami relief (half to come from LCIF reserves and the other half from donations).

Lions in the United States have contributed more than US$1.5 million to our tsunami fund. English Lions donated US$225,000. Korean Lions US$200,000, Irish Lions US$136,000 and Swedish Lions US$120,000. More donations will come in from these Lions. The Irish Lions, for example, expect to contribute as much as US$410,000.

Other Lions have pledged generous sums as well. The Australian Lions pledged $1 million in Australian dollars (about US$775,000) and the Belgian Lions pledged US$325,000. The Japanese Lions will make a major donation. The Lions of France plan to donate at least US$150,000.

Lions from around the world have made personal sacrifices to make these donations. I want to extend my heartfelt appreciation, gratitude and admiration to all Lions who have contributed. Together, Lions are reaching out to those most in need in South Asia. Moved by the immense suffering, Lions are doing all they can to help people and communities get back on their feet.

Even as Lions in South Asia continue to work long hours providing relief camps with vital supplies, LCIF is energetically working with South Asian Lions on long-term recovery plans. We are making plans with committees of leading Lions to rebuild homes, schools and orphanages. Long after the TV news crews have left, long after the attention of the world is elsewhere, LCIF and Lions will be on the ground in South Asia making sure communities are rebuilt.

Final plans have not been approved yet, but I can tell you that Lions in Sri Lanka, Indonesia, Thailand and India propose to construct inexpensive but sturdy and comfortable homes as well as primary schools and high schools, health clinics, hospitals, water wells and child welfare centers. Lions also will provide psychological treatment and physical rehabilitation both for children and adults.

In many instances Lions in South Asia will aid tsunami victims in remote or underserved regions that other aid organizations will bypass. Lions will make sure that our assistance primarily goes to people who otherwise would have to fend for themselves.

LCIF's recovery efforts will be efficient, effective and expeditious. I can say this with confidence because of LCIF's strong record of rebuilding after disasters (such as after an earthquake in 2001 in Gujarat, India) and because it partners with Lions on the ground, who know their communities and how to get things done. The generosity and know-how of Lions, combined with the financial support and organizational skills of LCIF, will help untold numbers of people put their lives back together.

An LCIF-funded eyeglass mission to South Asia has shown the kind of results we can quickly achieve. Many South Asians lost their eyeglasses when the tsunami destroyed their homes, and few can afford a new pair. Past International Director Bill Iannaccone is currently in Sri Lanka leading a 12-member eyeglass team. They plan to distribute 25,000 pairs of glasses and teach the Sri Lankan Lions how to use two donated lensometers and run an eyeglass recycling operation. The new skill will allow the Sri Lankan Lions to fit another 50,000 pair of recycled eyeglasses already sent there.

Donations to LCIF are a highly efficient and effective way to help people impacted by the tsunamis. Every donated dollar goes directly to relief efforts; LCIF's administrative costs are paid for by interest on investments.

We are at a unique chapter in Lions' history. Our commitment to service has never been demonstrated so convincingly. Lions worldwide have given LCIF and Lions in South Asia the support they need to rebuild shattered communities. Day after day, we will continue to help the people of South Asia recover from their devastating tragedy.

Sincerely,
Dr. Tae-Sup Lee,
LCIF Chairperson

 

Sri Lanka has been visited by Lion Gordon Lazenby (District Governor 92/93 105C). View his two reports and pictures from MD306 of the devastation; of the despair; of 54,000 houses destroyed in District 306C and how local Lions are serving their shattered community and how your Club and the Lions of 105W can help.

£10 will buy an emergency family parcel; £100 will provide new clothes for a family of 5; £250 will buy a small motorised fishing boat; £500 will pay for a years education for an orphaned child; £750 will buy a two room house. The Lions of MD306 have pledged to build 3000 houses. 

17th January Report 1 

25th January Report 2 

 

Lions Clubs in District 105W, within the area of South Wales to Cheltenham, through greater Bristol to Swindon have donated £57,000 for the Tsunami Disaster Fund through the District Treasurer. This money will support the US$5 million being mobilized by Lions Clubs International Foundation to provide for immediate relief and long-term rebuilding of communities in South Asia. Based in the States, Lions Clubs International Foundation (LCIF) is the grant-making arm of Lions Clubs International, the world's largest service organization.

LCIF will match the $2.5 million expected to be donated by Lions worldwide to LCIF for tsunami victims. LCIF will award the funds to Lions in Indonesia, Sri Lanka, Thailand, India and Malaysia for locally led rebuilding efforts.

"The tsunami disaster in South Asia has prompted a tremendous outpouring of support from Lions around the world, and Lions in the affected countries are working day and night to bring life-saving supplies to victims," said Dr. Tae-Sup Lee of Seoul, Korea, LCIF Chairperson for 2004-2005. "Thanks to Lions, victims are receiving necessary food and water and communities will be rebuilt."

Supported by LCIF, several thousand local Lions are now providing immediate relief aid such as food, water and clothing from the west coast of India to Thailand and south to Indonesia. Local Lions in hundreds of places are at the scenes of the disaster, helping to organize relief and ensuring that people get vital relief supplies. Lions in South Asia have spent an estimated $820,000 on relief, including $220,000 sent to them by LCIF.

LCIF has a 30-year history of disaster relief including two major rebuilding efforts in South Asia after recent natural disasters. After an earthquake in Gujart, India, in 2001, LCIF mobilized $2.5 million to rebuild 734 homes, 20 primary schools and a general hospital. In 2000, LCIF provided almost US$500,000 to assist rebuild areas affected by the Orissa cyclone in India. A total of 360 homes, nine community centres, five schools, and two orphanages were constructed.

The real impact of LCIF's assistance to tsunami victims in South Asia will be fully realized in the next several years as LCIF partners with Lions to rebuild homes, schools and community centres. This long-term approach plays to the strength of LCIF and Lions, who belong to their communities, understand local needs and know how to get things done. Lions are often civic, business and government leaders. In Sri Lanka, for example, the former president is a Lion, as is the current Minister of Housing.

 

The South Asian tsunami is considered the largest natural disaster in modern history. LCIF and Lions are responding accordingly. I am pleased to tell you that LCIF is initially committing US$5 million to assist in the recovery. The funds will enable Lions in South Asia to provide for long-term reconstruction by building homes, school and child welfare centers for orphans.

The US$5 million commitment is a matching donation from LCIF. Half of the US$5 million will come from LCIF reserves, and the other half from the expected US2.5 million in donations to LCIF for tsunami relief from individuals, clubs and districts worldwide.

The second piece of important news is that until March 31 donations to LCIF for tsunami relief are eligible for Melvin Jones Fellowship recognition. This covers donations for tsunami relief from Dec. 26, 2004, to March 31, 2005. See below for more information.

Lions in South Asia continue their vital relief operations. Lions there already have spent an estimated $820,000 on relief, including $220,000 in Emergency grants sent to them by LCIF. Lions in Sri Lanka, Indonesia, Thailand, India and Malaysia are providing tsunami victims with essential supplies such as food, water and medicine. Lions in Sri Lanka in District 306C, for example, sent 75 lorry loads of relief materials to devastated towns and villages. In Indonesia, Lions were the first social organization to coordinate aid in Banda Aceh. Despite having lost members of their own families, Lions spent untold hours dispensing supplies.

Even as they distributed crucial supplies, Lions began planning long-term reconstruction of communities. Lions have been meeting with government officials and other relief organizations to develop comprehensive but entirely realistic and practical recovery initiatives. You can be assured that Lions, who are key civic, business and community leaders themselves, are making certain that their service and their funds are applied expeditiously and efficiently.

LCIF is mobilizing tremendous financial support for recovery for South Asia. To date, LCIF has received more than US$630,000 in donations from Lions. This includes US$200,00 from the Lions of Korea and US$120,000 from the Lions of Sweden. The Lions of Japan are expected to make a major donation and the Lions of Ireland expect to contribute US$460,000.

These donations will enable LCIF to partner with local Lions on rebuilding communities. The real impact of LCIF’s assistance to tsunami victims in South Asia will be fully realized in the next several years as LCIF partners with Lions to rebuild communities. This long-term approach plays to the strength of LCIF and Lions, who belong to their communities, understand local needs and know how to get things done.

The shock and horror of the tsunami disaster will remain with us for a very, very long time. But LCIF and Lions are doing all they can to help victims and get communities back on their feet. I humbly thank you for your service and compassion.

Sincerely, Dr. Tae-Sup Lee, LCIF Chairperson

 

Lions in Action
Supported by LCIF, several thousand local Lions are now providing immediate relief aid such as food, water and clothing from the west coast of India to Thailand and south to Indonesia. Local Lions in hundreds of places are at the scenes of the disaster, helping to organize relief and ensuring that people get vital relief supplies. Lions from nearby nations also have sent volunteer workers. The Taiwan Lions, for example, sent a medical team to Sri Lanka. The service of Lions is enabling communities to take care of their children, elderly, those with disabilities and other especially vulnerable people.

Here are a few examples of how local Lions are helping victims in South Asia:

In Sri Lanka, Lions are working 16-hour days in organizing relief aid and are a key partner of the government’s relief agency and of the country's president. Enhancing their ability to assist in the relief, Lions hold key positions in the community. The former president is a Lion, as is the current Minister of Housing. District 306-B sent 60 truckloads of food and supplies to several relocation camps. Lions receive police escorts for the deliveries. District 306-A is organizing the installation of tents at new relocation camps in southern Sri Lanka at the government's request.
In Indonesia, Lions are contributing greatly to relief efforts in some of the hardest hit areas. Thirty clubs near Medan provide logistical support for aid shipments to Bandh Acheh and send out four trucks of materials daily. They also are providing shelter, food, and clothing to refugees who have entered Medan. Lion-doctors from Jakarta and Medan are providing medical treatment. Lions also are making preliminary plans to support the educational needs of orphans.
In India, 20 Lions’ ambulances and a team of 80 Lions volunteer medical doctors are providing first aid near Chennai. Nearly 70 clubs fanned out in the region from Parassalla to Haripad to distribute food and clothes at the relief camps. Lion-doctors conducted free treatment at relief centers.
In Thailand, Lions in Bangkok have sent water tanks and trucks loaded with supplies to Phuket. Lions are working with government officials and relief agencies to provide for basic needs at relocation camps.

Generosity of Lions
LCIF’s grants for the tsunami disaster, made possible, of course, by prior donations by Lions, now total US$470,000 and will climb much higher as needs are continually assessed and requests for assistance are made. Additionally, Lions throughout the world are making pledges of support, including US$120,000 from the Lions of Sweden and US$200,000 from the Lions of Korea.

Hundreds of clubs and individuals also have sent funds to LCIF. The Vancouver Metropolitan Lions Club in Canada, for example, sent LCIF a check for US$6,600. Club President Raymond Wong told LCIF, “Everyday we saw on the news that the amount of casualties are increasing by the thousands. We share the same view of most Lions that we have to do something to support the unfortunate people who have to deal with this great tragedy. We hope this small token of donations can bring some immediate help to the people in those regions. In the meantime, I have taken the initiative to ask the other clubs in our district to support this great cause.”

LCIF’s Long-Term Aid
LCIF provides immediate relief and long-term reconstruction after a disaster. LCIF is not only helping people stay alive after the tsunami but it also will rebuild communities for years to come. The real impact of LCIF’s assistance to South Asia will be fully realized in the next several years as LCIF partners with Lions to rebuild homes, schools and community centers. This long-term approach plays to the strength of LCIF and Lions, who belong to their communities, understand local needs and know how to get things done.

LCIF’s prior success with disaster relief in South Asia bodes well for its initiatives in response to the tsunami. LCIF has recently assisted with aid and reconstruction in the aftermath of two major natural disasters in India. In 2001, US$2.5 million was mobilized to assist communities rebuild after the Gujarat earthquake. The funds built 734 homes for people displaced by the earthquake, 20 primary schools, and a general hospital. In 2000, LCIF assisted with almost US$500,000 to assist rebuild areas affected by the Orissa cyclone. A total of 360 homes, nine community centers, five schools, and two orphanages were constructed.

How to Donate
LCIF established the South Asia Tsunami Disaster Relief Fund (#5105) for Lions, clubs, districts and others to assist relief efforts by Lions. The funds are supporting immediate needs such as food and water and will support long-term reconstruction needs.

U.S. donors can:

· Mail a check to LCIF. Make the check payable to LCIF and write “tsunami relief” in the memo field. Send the check to LCIF, 300 W. 22nd St., Oak Brook, IL 60523, USA, Attn.: Donor Services.

· Make a credit card donation with a MasterCard, Visa or American Express by calling LCIF at 630-571-5466, ext. 517 or 554. Call between 8 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. CST.

Donors outside the United States can:

Make a credit card donation with a MasterCard, Visa or American Express by faxing to LCIF the name of your credit card, credit card number, expiration date and amount of donation. LCIF’s fax number is 630-571-5735.
Mail LCIF a U.S. dollar check drawn on a U.S. financial institution. Make the check payable to LCIF and write “tsunami relief” in the memo field. Send the check to LCIF, 300 W. 22nd St., Oak Brook, IL 60523, USA, Attn.: Donor Services.
Make a direct deposit of local currency into an existing LCI account. Specify “LCIF tsunami relief” on the deposit slip and send a copy to LCIF via fax (630-571-5735).
Do a direct wire transfer. For assistance with this option or the other donation options, contact Gerry Bara of LCIF Donor Services at gbara@lionsclubs.org or by phone at 630-571-5466, ext. 581.

Since this is a donation to a specific initiative, it is not eligible for Melvin Jones Fellowship recognition. The main purpose of the MJF program is to encourage and recognize Lions who donate unrestricted funds to LCIF to support all of the foundation's grant program and to provide for our annual funding. Allowing MJF recognition for donations to a specific disaster could cause a sharp drop in unrestricted donations and impact LCIF’s ability to fund its many programs.

However, donations for tsunami relief are counted toward an individual’s and a club’s cumulative giving totals to LCIF, which help qualify an individual and club for various recognition programs. Also, the names of individuals and clubs that make significant donations will be posted on a new Web site LCIF is creating on the disaster. All donors will be recognized in special reports in the near future,

Note that LCIF is unable to accept offers of goods such as blankets, clothing or food. It is not logistically feasible for LCIF to process and transport such donations.

Why Donate to LCIF
Lions who donate to other relief agencies or Lions districts that donate directly to another district affected by the tsunami are to be commended for their generosity. But donating to LCIF carries several important advantages.

Donations to LCIF are a highly efficient and effective way to help people impacted by the tsunamis. Every donated dollar goes directly to relief efforts; LCIF’s administrative costs are paid for by interests on investments.

The donations empower local Lions who are familiar with the needs of their community to meet the most critical needs of their community. There are 73,000 Lions on the ground in the hardest hit regions of India, Sri Lanka, Thailand and Indonesia who are able to come to the aid of those most in need. LCIF has a long history of disaster relief and filling in the gaps not covered by other relief agencies.

LCIF’s grants are often matched by grants from other agencies. Thus donations made to LCIF are eventually leveraged by other grants, maximizing the power and reach of a single donation.

LCIF takes a comprehensive, coordinated approach to disaster recovery, instead of piecemeal solutions. LCIF strategically plans long-term recovery efforts by working with committees of leading Lions and by working with government officials and other non-governmental organizations. Quite frequently, the government officials and non-profit leaders are Lions themselves, immeasurably increasing LCIF’s ability to move projects forward to a speedy completion. In Sri Lanka, for example, the Minister of Housing is a Lion, and the Lions there are actually working in coordination with the government to direct other aid agencies.

Accountability
As a rule, LCIF does not send funding to local Lions districts without knowing precise needs and without assurance that the local Lions are avoiding duplication of efforts. Donors can rest assured also knowing there is strict oversight of grants:

· All Emergency Grants are awarded solely on the basis of a detailed application from the affected district. A specific action plan must be presented and must include which villages and how many people will be helped and what relief items will be purchased.

· Districts provide final reports that must include documentation, receipts and bank account statements for the funds disbursed, along with photos of the relief effort and other details. In South Asia, those final reports are audited and double-checked by LCIF’s office in Bombay.

· LCIF has been awarding Emergency Grants in these countries for 30 years and has vast experience in ensuring proper coordination and accountability.

· The local Lions who are spending the Emergency Grants also use their own funds and in many instances spend double or triple the amount that LCIF awarded them, which speaks to the care in which Lions use LCIF funds.

LCIF will continue to keep you updated through these bulletins. Also, in the near future, LCIF will have a new Web site containing the latest information on the tsunami disaster. Its address will be www.lionsclubs.org/tsunami

More funds will be awarded by LICF in the coming days as needs are assessed. Your generosity is deeply appreciated and your continued support is desperately needed.

 

The tsunami disaster in South Asia has prompted a tremendous outpouring of support from Lions around the world, and Lions in the affected countries are working day and night to bring life-saving supplies to victims. Thanks to Lions, lives are being saved and communities will be rebuilt.

LCIF has awarded US$470,000 in grants to Lions in India, Indonesia, Sri Lanka, Thailand and Malaysia. This includes US$220,000 in emergency grants for Lions to secure and deliver food, water and blankets and a US$250,000 major catastrophe grant for longer-term relief.

Following is a more complete account of the relief efforts of LCIF and Lions. You will be proud to learn of how important Lions have been and perhaps be even more motivated to offer your support. On behalf of Lions of South Asia, I humbly thank you for your interest and compassion.

Sincerely, Dr. Tae-Sup Lee

 

Clubs may wish to consider collecting for the tsunami disaster fund at local football or rugby matches between now and say, the end of next week-end, Saturday 15th January. A collection last Saturday 1st January at Ipswich, raised £28.000. If Club manning presents a problem then you may consider asking for help from other organisations. 

Good luck to all 105W Club members out in your communities, in action providing tsunami relief funds. 

Thank you all for your tremendous efforts in the name of Lions Clubs International. 

Lion Alan Denham DG

 

For more pictures from Lion Nicolas Seow showing Lions Club of Sunway New Century, Malaysia in action, click

 

The Red Cross are organizing a collection for the South East Asia Tsunami Disaster.

This will take place outside Tesco Stores Nationwide between 9am and 6pm on Saturday 8th January, and 10am and 4pm on Sunday 9th January.

They are appealing for help with manpower. If any Lions Club is able to help this would be very much appreciated and they should contact their local branch of the Red Cross for more details. http://www.redcross.org.uk/whereweare.asp?id=383

Most Red Cross offices will be closed until Tuesday 4th January. Please phone them then to coordinate - and ensure that you are wearing Lions identification such as tabards when collecting.

 

Certainly 2004 is ending on a very sad note following the news concerning the earthquake affecting the coast lines of India; Indonesia; Sri Lanka and Thailand and quite naturally we, as Lions, wish to help.

Within the last few days, $170,000 in LCIF Emergency Grant Funds have been dispatched to Lion Districts in the aforementioned areas which is being used to provide shelter, water supplies and sanitation, working hand-in-hand with
Governments at national level, forming joint ventures as appropriate.

At the moment it seems that money is not the main issue as you will have learned from the media.  The current problem is logistics, getting the help that is being offered in abundance to the people who need it.  There are many emergency agencies working on these problems and therefore it would seem sensible to wait to identify medium and long term projects on which to expend our efforts as Lions.

To this end, the International First Vice President, some past International Presidents and a current International Director are in the area to assess these needs so that, as an International organisation, we arrive at a coherent plan.

What can the Lions of W do to help? I suggest:-

a)  That EVERY Club organise a special collection, or collections, for this appeal advising the public that funds so collected will be dispersed by Lions with NO administration expenses being incurred.  Mention too that
Lions world-wide have, through LCIF,  already contributed $200,000 and have pledged a further $320,000 again for immediate/medium term use.

b)  That we share the idea from Keynsham Lions, that local Lions Clubs offer to act as Treasurer for any other fund raising for this cause, that may be undertaken within your community, unless it is already ear-marked for the
International Red Cross. Your selling point is again, no administration expenses involved.

Funds collected should be sent to the District Treasurer with cheques being made payable to Lions Clubs International District 105W and marked on the reverse " South Asia Tsunami Disaster Fund "

I will request the Treasurer to remit funds received for this Fund to be remitted to LCIF, via the normal channels, in tranches of £5,000 to ensure that monies are not left " idle " within the District.  As the days/weeks
pass, he will use his discretion to send away smaller amounts on an 'as and when' basis.

Dare I set a target for W?  Perhaps not, just try your utmost to ensure that LCIF can continue their efforts to help those presently much less fortunate than ourselves.

Thank you for reading this and even greater thanks for acting upon it.

Yours in Lionism, Lion Alan Denham DG

 

In the last 72 hours, $170,000 in LCIF Emergency Grant funds have been dispatched to Lions districts in India , Sri Lanka , Thailand and Indonesia to help the Lions provide food, blankets, water and other relief items.  

There are 73,000 Lions in the hardest hit regions of India , Sri Lanka , Thailand and Indonesia on the spot, coming to the aid of those in need.  They are working in the affected communities, as well as coordinating with the government at national levels.  In Sri Lanka , the Lions have formed a joint commission with the government to expand the country’s response in dealing with the critical issues of shelter, water supplies and sanitation.  In India, the hardest hit districts in and around Chennai have also come together to coordinate the expenditure of US$50,000 in LCIF funding awarded for districts that cover the coastline from Tamil Nadu north to Orissa.  

For Lions wishing to help support these efforts, LCIF has created a special designated fund, the “South Asia Tsunami Disaster 2004 Fund,” to receive donations that will be forwarded on to the affected areas.  This fund will complement funds already awarded.  Funds will be used to support both immediate and long-term needs of the victims.    Already Lions around the world are making pledges of support, including US$120,000 from the Lions of Sweden and US$200,000 from the Lions of Korea.

Lions and others interested in supporting this special fund can do so by making a donation to LCIF.  In North America , checks can be sent to LCIF.  In other countries, funds can be sent directly to the LCI or LCIF accounts.  In both cases, a cover note or memo on the check/deposit slip should indicate that the donation is for the “South Asia Tsunami Disaster 2004 Fund.”  You may also contact your district’s LCIF chairperson for more details on making donations to LCIF.  If you have any questions, please contact lcif@lionsclubs.org.   

LCIF will continue to keep you updated through these bulletins.  More funds will be awarded by LCIF in the coming days as needs are assessed.  Your support is needed to help Lions of the world respond to what is the world’s largest catastrophe in modern history.

 

Dear Fellow Lions, It was with great shock, disbelief and immense sadness that the people of the world have witnessed the horrific earthquake and tsunami disaster that has impacted millions across South Asia .  Lions around the world have been contacting me to learn of LCIF’s relief aid provided thus far, and also how they can support Lions in the region respond to this great tragedy.  

I am pleased to report that nearly US$200,000 in emergency grant funding has been disbursed and a special designated fund established for Lions and others who want to help out.  Attached is a first bulletin with an update of details of LCIF’s relief efforts for this catastrophe.  

On behalf of Lions of South Asia, I sincerely thank you for your interest, concern and compassion.  

Sincerely, Dr. Tae-Sup Lee,  LCIF Chairperson

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