Lions help more than 30 families in need

Tuesday 12 January 2021

Dental work for an elderly person, and donations including a washing machine and a bath lift, are among the £11,000 of aid Jersey's Lions Club has given islanders in need over the past six months.

In a new ‘half term’ report, the philanthropic organisation explains that it managed to help over 30 families and individuals despite the challenges of the pandemic, which led to the cancellation of its annual Swimarathon and Muddy Fun Run fundraisers.

Donations have included a washing machine and a tumble drier, a bath lift for someone with disabilities, a profiled bed and mattress, as well as paying for dental work for an elderly islander. 

“Although many of the sums we pay out are relatively small, they provide items that are essential for families and individuals to maintain a quality of life in these difficult times,” said the Lions' Community Service Committee lead, Jane Rueb. 

Pictured: Peter Tabb was made President of the Lions in August last year.

“In addition, with funding from a recent legacy, we have been able to spend a further £5,000 on providing summer and half-term activity holidays for young people.”

Even with the cancelled events, they were also able to make the most of what they had already received in funding for the Swimarathon, donating over £8,000 to local and international projects.

The group have also kept £15,000, which they will use to provide ”deserving” local people with holidays at Maison des Landes Hotel, once it is able to open again.

Pictured: A washing machine was one of the gifts donated to the 32 families and individuals helped by the Lions.

“Although our reputation rests largely on our very successful fundraisers such as the Swimarathon and Muddy Fun Run, the whole purpose is raising funds is so that we can help those in the community who are disadvantaged and often fall through the net of support provided by government or even other charities,” said President Peter Tabb. 

“This, despite the cancellation of our major events, with the funds we hold, we have been able to continue to do.”