The Lions Go roaring on…

Posted: 15th August 2022

 

The Swanmore Fete always marks the start of our new Lions year; we’re always so pleased to put on a great day for the community and get our fundraising off to a solid start. 

 

But sometimes we are asked; why do Meon Valley Lions Club need to fundraise? what do you actually spend the money on?  Below is a short summary of where the money raised actually goes:

 

Calls for Lions Help - We provided direct help, when asked, for families in the Meon Valley.  In the last 12 months, we purchased cookers, washing machines, fridge freezers, rugs, beds, mattresses, bedding, clothes and helped with a couple of gardening projects. The help gives families a leg up when needed.

 

Fundraising to help other organisations - We help the wonderful team at Rose Road Association and The Rainbow Centre in joint fundraising activities - just check out their websites to see the amazing work they do in our area. This year we also helped the Soberton & Newtown Ukrainian Group with a donation for some essential toiletries. Each spring we also do the Marie Currie collections in Bishops Waltham. 

 

Contact with external organisations - We maintain regular contact with key external groups like the Food Bank, Age Concern, Rainbow Centre, Rose Road Ass, Baby Bank, Wickham Pantry, Homestart, Fitzroy, Adult and Children Services at Hants CC, and Citizen Advice - they always know the Meon Valley Lions are on hand should they know of anyone who needs our help.

 

The Lions Minibus - We run our legendary Meon Valley Minibus, out every week supporting various clubs and lunch clubs.  It is also used by other local groups and clubs for transport when needed. It is the ultimate community bus.

 

Christmas Cheer - We provide a small amount of Christmas cheer via Age Concern, Homestart and the Foodbank - (sorry to mention Christmas so early).

 

Socials - But it’s not all work and no play - we actually enjoy the Fete, doing the BBQ at many local events and when the work is done, we have also been known to have a get together down the local. Friendship and socialising, whilst giving back, is an important part of being a Lion, you can read all about us at our website. 

https://www.meonvalleylionsclub.org.uk

 

As you can hopefully see, our fundraising is very much a means to an end for helping anyone who lives in the Meon Valley and only possible with your support. 

 

So next time you see us out - ask us about being a Lion and what we actually do and as always, if you need our help - please contact us asap.

 

Apology – So sorry I missed thanking Contraband off my previous newsletter.  They did a great job and had lots of the children dancing along in the arena.