World Health Organization
For over 30 years, Lions Clubs International Foundation (LCIF) has partnered with the World Health Organization (WHO), the United Nations specialized agency for health and well-being. Together, we advance eye care, prevent vision loss, reduce the impact of diabetes, and now also address mental health challenges worldwide. This collaboration combines WHO’s technical expertise with LCIF’s funding, publicity, and the involvement of local Lions, enabling expanded access to health services, raising awareness and delivering hands-on support in communities worldwide.
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LCIF and WHO partnership
Decades of impact
Since 1990, the LCIF–WHO partnership has delivered measurable results across global health:
- Child eye care: 73 centers established in 30 countries, improving pediatric ophthalmology services and supporting thousands of children
- Vision loss prevention: Diabetes and diabetic retinopathy assessment tools implemented in more than 45 countries
- Grant funding: Nearly US$7 million awarded to enhance pediatric and community eye care
- Sustainable services: Programs integrated into national health systems for long-term impact
Gain insight into LCIF’s global impact and grant funding awarded worldwide.
Preventing blindness and reducing diabetes
Lions and Leos, with LCIF support, work with WHO to prevent blindness and reduce the impact of diabetes worldwide. Programs include vision and diabetes screenings, diabetes awareness events, peer support groups and community health education. LCIF grants empower Lions and Leos to implement these programs at scale, reaching underserved communities and strengthening local health systems.
Learn more about our vision and diabetes-focused causes.
Expanding focus to mental health
Decades of impact
Mental health is one of the most neglected areas of public health, affecting nearly one billion people worldwide, including 280 million with depression. Each year, more than 700,000 people die by suicide. Access to care remains limited in many regions, with an estimated 75% of those in need unable to receive treatment. (Source: World Health Organization, WHO Special Initiative for Mental Health, English only)
LCIF and WHO have committed to addressing this gap over a three-year period in Jordan and Nepal through the WHO Special Initiative for Mental Health (SMH):
- Expanding mental health services and integrating screening into primary care systems
- Enhancing hospital and community-based care in Jordan
- Establishing mental health corners and rolling out a school mental health framework in Nepal
- Supporting professional training for mental health care providers
- Mobilizing Lions members to raise awareness, reduce stigma, and promote help-seeking
Your foundation for service
Give with confidence. Every donation helps Lions and Leos transform lives, fund vital humanitarian projects and create lasting change in communities worldwide.
