CASTRIES LIONS FULFILLING THEIR MOTTO – “WE SERVE”

Castries Lions End first half of Lions' fiscal year in 
Service to Community

December 2013 marked the end of the first half of the lions’ fiscal year and true to their motto the members of the Lions Club of Castries ended in service. The first half saw the lions engaged in a number of service activities from their monthly feeding at the Saint Lucy’s and Mother Theresa Homes to the feeding at the RC Boys School which patrons are always ever so grateful for.   

In November in observance of the Diabetes awareness month the club mounted an educational exhibition at the Lion’s Den.  Members were educated on the symptoms of diabetes as well as healthy eating habits.  The highlight of the exhibition was the care of the diabetic foot. The members also participated in the Mini fair organized by the Saint Lucia Diabetic and Hypertensive Association. The Lions and Leos assisted the participating students in the formation of the blue circle the emblem which symbolizes Diabetes.  This was in fulfillment of the requirements set by the International Diabetes Association for the observation of Diabetes Awareness month.   

Also in recognition of the United Nations Day for older persons the lions visited shut-in and delivered grocery hampers to three families.  The families were not only thankful for the items received but for the visit by the lions who spent time chatting with them.   The residents of the National Mental Hospital were also the beneficiaries of a treat sponsored by the Lions and Leos of Castries.  In addition to the treat the members spent time sharing experiences with them. For those of us who had visited the institution before the experience was once again refreshing, for those who were visiting for the first time though scary they found it interesting.

For the lions, sharing the Christmas cheer started early.  On Saturday December 14, 2013 the Lions and Leos of Castries visited the Odsan Combined School to host the annual Christmas party for needy children.  The over 130 students were identified by the principal and teachers as deserving of this treat.   There was lost to eat and drink and the children enjoyed the fun games as well as dancing to local Christmas soca music.  The highlight of the party was the appearance of Santa.  Our female Santa came from the Leo Club.  She embraced the children who all whispered to Santa their wishes for Christmas and later showered them with the many Gifts.   This year the Saint Lucian Association of London partnered with the Lions Club of Castries in hosting the children's party. 

On Sunday December 15 the monthly feeding at the Mother Theresa home for the elderly took place the residents were served their Christmas lunch early and presented with their gifts which were placed under the Christmas tree for the grand opening on Christmas day.  

December 21 the Leos took the lead in hosting their annual Christmas lunch for the less fortunate persons around the city circuit.  This year the Lees partnered with the Social Club of the First National Bank who not only sponsored the feeding but participated on that day. 

Each year Lions are called to share a part of their Christmas lunch with the less fortunate. Christmas day 2013 took on special meaning for the Lions and Leos of Castries since it was day after the devastating trough.  The Lions took time to prepare the Christmas treat for the less fortunate in the city environs, and was heartened by the fact that persons who were also affected by the trough were able to partake in the meal.

As we embark on another six month of service to community we would like to express our thanks to the many partners who have made our service to the community meaningful.   Our thanks to the Reduit Football Club for their continued support of our monthly feeding.  The Saint Lucia Association of London, The First National Bank, The staff of Sagicor, the Staff of Bank of Saint Lucia and the many other commercial entities who contributed in one way or other to the success of our community programmes.  The support of individuals and organizations like yours make our voluntary service easier and gratifying.

  
The Board of Directors and members of the Lions and Leo clubs of Castries wish everyone a Happy New Year and look forward to partnership in many more hours of community service.