Hello to the good readers of this publication. This is Paul Buckley of the Seekonk Lions Club. As I continue to write about the great things Lions do for our community, I would like to share a short story about how the Seekonk Lions stepped in to help a local family facing a period of financial hardship.
Last month, I received an email from Melissa at Angels Care Closet, a charitable organization located in Briarwood Plaza. If you are not familiar with Angels Care Closet, their website states that they provide “assistance to families and individuals in New England in the form of donated clothing, shoes, toiletries, school supplies, and other essentials. They offer relief to struggling families and ensure that children can attend school confidently, equipped with what they need to succeed. They also support families enduring tragic losses or financial uncertainty.”
Melissa explained that a mother in Seekonk had reached out to them for help. The family had been struggling financially for several months and needed glasses for their children, but they couldn’t afford the cost. Additionally, the boys required eye exams for their new prescriptions. I requested the mother’s contact information so we could explore how the Seekonk Lions could assist.
Just a little background: if you’re not already aware, Lions are dedicated to helping people with vision issues. In 1925, Helen Keller, the world-famous speaker and author who was blind, challenged Lions International to be advocates for people with disabilities. She urged Lions to “constitute yourselves Knights of the Blind” and support the work of the American Foundation for the Blind.
Today, Lions are involved in many humanitarian efforts through the Massachusetts Lions Eye Research Fund (MLERF) and Lions Clubs International Foundation (LCIF). Funding research for diabetes, donations of funds to food banks and pantries, providing disaster aid to support recovery efforts are a part of the continued effort for local Lions.
Getting back to my story, within a few days of discussing with the family how the Seekonk Lions could help, I informed them that we would cover the cost of new frames and lenses for the boys. An appointment was scheduled at a nearby Walmart to get the process started. Within a few days, the boys were proudly wearing their new glasses…sharp, functional, and easy to wear. The mother told me her children were overjoyed and thankful for our kindness.
Moments like these rekindle the spirit of community service and remind us of the impact a little kindness can have on those in need.
The Lions provide many services in our area that deserve greater awareness. From vision and hearing assistance to support for veterans, youth, and individuals with disabilities, our clubs are committed to serving those in need.
With a strong network of volunteers and resources like free health screenings, eyeglasses, hearing aids, and community projects, Lions here in Seekonk and in Massachusetts are always ready to lend a helping hand.
If you or someone you know needs assistance, remember that the Lions are here as a caring resource, dedicated to improving lives and strengthening our community.
Lions of Massachusetts MD33 – Get Involved with Lions
Seekonk Lions Charitable Trust Inc.
Nonprofit | Angels Care Closet | Seekonk
for your time.
Paul
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