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Dear Lion,
The last few months have
seen great destruction across our globe. But, like me, I am sure you are
proud of how we Lions and our global Foundation have been quick to
respond. Now, in the case of the Southern United States disasters,
we are giving a hand and giving hope to those in greatest need. The
Foundation has already provided US$160,000 in emergency grants for
immediate relief across eight states since mid-April. We are mobilizing
an additional US$250,000 for continued relief efforts.
The destruction and death tolls continue to rise from the
deadly tornados and storms throughout the U.S. during the month of April.
I continue to be shocked and saddened by this news. It is the largest
tornado outbreak in the history of the U.S., with at least 178 tornados
killing more than 300 people. Thousands of people across several states have
been left homeless.
 Lions have also been greatly
impacted. But they are committed to
meeting the urgent needs in their communities. In hard-hit Birmingham,
Alabama, Lions have set up a warehouse staging area to collect and
distribute donated goods, including emergency supplies such as water and
food. Twenty-seven Lions clubs in District 12- O, Tennessee are providing
200 families with prepared food boxes, needed medical supplies and
eyeglasses.
"Lions from around the world have called me to hear how
the local Lions are doing," said Lions International Director
Yamandu Acosta, of Alabama. He has received calls from Australia, Spain
and Peru, as well as others.
Lions, you know well that Lions Clubs greatest asset is our  volunteers-you and 1.35 million Lions around the world.
Wherever there is a need, there is a Lions club nearby, ready to respond
with their hearts and hands. Your generosity in the case of disasters
allows us to be the first to offer help.
Lions, I ask for your help in making the hope for a brighter tomorrow a
reality for the people in these devastated areas.The most effective and
immediate way to help is through a designated donation to LCIF for Southern United
States relief.
I have see n some of the recent
destruction first-hand in New Zealand, and next month Margit and I will
be in Japan and Haiti to visit with Lions and view our relief efforts
there. Lions, we can take great pride in our long history of providing
relief for as long as it takes.
I hope I can count on you
to once again give your full support to give help and hope in the
Southern United States.
With my cordial regards,
Eberhard J. Wirfs
Chairperson, Lions Clubs
International Foundation
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