When areas of Sri Lanka were devastated by the tsunami of 2004, more than 2.5 million people were displaced by the tragedy – and thousands lost their eyeglasses and their ability to see clearly.
In all, 100,000 pairs of eyeglasses were provided, giving thousands the sight they needed to read, study, manage daily tasks and earn a living.
Through efforts like these, Lions have gained worldwide recognition for our work to improve sight:
In 1925, Helen Keller challenged Lions to become "knights of the blind in the crusade against darkness." And we accepted. Today, sight programs remain one of our defining causes.
60,000
The number of people near Capetown, South Africa who receive food collected and distributed by local Lions. Lions provide food to more than 65 soup kitchens and nearly 400 community organizations 363 days a year.