What we do…
Sometimes, it all begins with an idea. Many things inspire us, but the Boston Host Lions are committed to service and making a difference in people’s lives. These are a few of the things that we do.
Bunnies for Babies
For many years, Boston Host Lions have sold chocolate Easter Bunnies to support donations to the Pediatrics Department of Mass Eye & Ear. This project has included gifting comfort toy animals to the young patients of Mass Eye & Ear as well. The menagerie has included more than bunnies and brought many smiles over the years.
Ukrainian Childrens Project
Boston Host Lions promote awareness of and raise funds, through the sale and distribution of blue and yellow ribbins, to support displaced Ukrainian children and their families. In collaboration with Lions in Germany, funds are sent directly to assist efforts of relocation and support across Europe. Comfort Cards created by Boston area children of all ages are also sent through the Lions of Germany to Ukrainian families.
Cards of HOPE
An ongoing project is the Boston Host Lions Cards of HOPE*. As a community-based arts activity, the Boston Host Lions provide materials for people to create greeting cards for others who may be in the hospital, serving in the military, living in an assisted living facility, or facing hardship. These cards are unique creations with thoughts of hope and caring from one human to another. Cards were an important part of the Ukrainian Children Project.
HOPE* = Helping Other People Everyday
Vision & Health Screenings
With the Massachusetts Lions District 33K Eyemobile, Boston Host Lions Have Conducted vision and health screenings at many community events. The Lions work with community partners to offer free screenings to the public. The program supports community outreach and education on the importance of eye health. Many people have been assisted with follow-up care and glasses through this program.
Eyeglasses Recycling
Used eyeglasses can still give the gift of sight. Boston Host Lions collect and recycle used eyeglasses. Through the Lions Eyeglasses Recycling network and other partners, collected glasses are cleaned, repaired, identified, and distributed for other recipients to use. Boston Host collected glasses have been distributed in Africa, the Caribean, Latin America, and the Philippines.
Gerry, named after the esteemed Boston Host Lions treasurer, is the inflatable Lions community ambassador. Gerry and his gang have attended public events and parades to highlight the good work of Lions everywhere and to increase awareness of Lions Clubs International Foundation. Gerry is a symbol of goodwill and camaraderie in the name of community service.
Books for Newborns
Reading is fundamental and it is never too early to begin a child’s experience with books. Boston Host Lions Club provides children’s books to the maternity unit of Boston Medical Center so that new parents take home the start of their baby’s library when they leave the hospital.
Benevolence
The Boston Host Lions established a benevolence program directed by the Benevolence Chair. The Boston Host Lions offer assistance for community needs or individual crises as well as extending a compassionate hand. The amounts are not large but can be meaningful for those in need.
Boston House
The Boston Host Lions have made a commitment to provide a monthly contribution to The Boston House. The Boston House provides lodging for families coping with cancer, during their stay in Boston for treatment and testing.
Peace Poster & Youth Speech
Boston Host Lions have sponsored local youth for the Lions Clubs International Peace Poster Contest and the Massachusetts Lions Youth Speech Contest. Both programs create an opportunity for young people to express their ideas on issues that affect the world.
PARTNERS & CAUSES WE SUPPORT
Lions Clubs International Foundation
Massachusetts Eye & Ear
Schepens Eye Institute
Massachusetts General Hospital
North End Against Drugs
Nazzaro Community Center
The Boston House
Tufts Medical School
Boston Children’s Hospital
Joslin Diabetes Center
Clara Barton Diabetes Center
Boston University Medical School
District Governor’s Emergency Fund
NEADS
Association of Blind Citizens
St. Anthony’s Shrine Health Center
Massachusetts Lions All-State Band
Fidelco
Lions Districts 33K & 33N Eyemobile
Lions District 33N Visual Aids Foundation
Hawaiian Lions Foundation
National Braille Press
Perkins School
Carroll Center
