Special Projects
Message in a Bottle
In 2003 we launched the 'Message in a Bottle' Scheme and have so far distributed over 8,000 bottles through health centres and chemists in the area.
The scheme is a simple idea designed to encourage people living on their own to keep their basic personal and medical information in one common place which is easily accessible in an emergency.
The scheme is supported by all the emergency services - Fire, Police and Ambulance
'Light Up a Life'
During December we invite local residents to dedicate a light on the christmas tree in the Hart Shopping Centre to the memory of a loved one. Everyone taking part is sent a dedication card and a list of names is displayed under the tree. Organisations which have benefitted from the donations received in the past include The phyllis Tuckwell Hospice, The Make-a-Wish Foundation and Naomi House Children's Hospice.
Spectacle Recycling
There is a tremendous need for recycled glasses throughout the world. The World Health Organisation (WHO) estimates that the eyesight of 25% of the world's population could be improved with corrective lenses. Unfortunately, for many a pair of glasses is either too expensive or inaccessible.
- 1 child in 4 cannot see well enough to read without a pair of spectacles
- by age 40 90% of the world's population needs a pair of spectacles to read
In many areas of the world, poor eyesight left uncorrected can force adults into inemployment and children out of the classroom.
The lives of 500 million people could be improved with a simple pair of eyeglasses.
By donating unwanted glasses you will help to make eyecare possible for those who might otherwise not receive the help they need to make a better life for themselves.
All types of glasses are suitable for recycling, including very strong and very weak prescriptions. Reading glasses are useful as many recipients need to help to perform close-up tasks. Sunglasses are also suitable for recycling.
We regularly collect unwanted spectacles from all of the opticians in Fleet Road, and special thanks go to the staff who assist with this recycling. When you are collecting your new pair, please donate your old pair in our collection box.
Alternatively, you can visit us on the first Thursday of every month at the Red Cross Centre, Clarence Road ,Fleet.
Campaign Sight First II
80% of the 37 million people who are blind need not be. It can be reversed or prevented in the first place. Lions Clubs International Foundation, with its 1.3 million Lions Clubs members are engaged in a global campaign to eliminate avoidable blindness.
Helen Keller challenged the LIONS to become Knights of the Blind, and for over half a century that is what they are.
Come and join us and see how our club and the local clubs in our Zone and District are doing their part to help.
