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Dear Fellow Lions,
It has been nearly two years since the tsunami devastated
Asia, leaving a path of destruction through Thailand, Indonesia,
India and Sri Lanka. Loss of life was in the thousands, and
the level of destruction, especially in the capital city of
Banda Aceh, Indonesia, was astounding. Yet the people in these
remain full of hope, and for great reason as the Lions have
made great strides in rebuilding lives and the economy.
Lions and LCIF have made significant achievements in reconstruction.
LCIF received a total of US$15 million in designated funding
for this disaster relief program, which is funding various
reconstruction projects (homes, vital public facilities, schools,
orphanages, and community resources). A total of 3,319 homes
are under construction (some completed) at this time.
Here are some examples of rebuilding initiatives:
- The Indonesian Lions Tsunami Committee has successfully
established three Lions Villages of 570 homes with electricity.
LCIF has also funded multiple village restrooms and deep-water
wells. Fishing boats, nets, and ponds have also been replaced
to help rebuild the economy. LCIF is believed to be the
first non-governmental organization to follow through with
its commitment to rebuild in this region.
- The mayor of Banda Aceh, previously hesitant to work with
foreign non-governmental organizations but impressed by
the rebuilding of Lions in North Aceh, has invited LCIF
to help rebuild his tattered city.
- Lions in Sri Lanka have helped build 1,451 homes. Homes
are being built at sites including Modera, Panadura, Kalutara,
Trincomalee, Ampara, Hambantota, Hikkaduw, and Balapitiya.
The Sri Lankan Lions are working in partnership with a local
NGO, the Solideal Loadstar Rehabilitation Trust to construct
74 of the homes.
- Twelve districts in India are participating in the tsunami
reconstruction program, and the majority of resources are
being directed toward the Lions districts on the east coast
from Chennai to Nagapatinam that were most effected by the
tsunami. Lions are helping to build 851 homes, community
rehabilitation centers, potable water facilities, primary
health centers, schools, and an orphanage.
- The Thailand Lions Tsunami Committee is concurrently managing
the construction of two Lions villages on two separate islands,
with a total of 195 homes for tsunami victims. The villages,
on Lanta and Phra Thong islands, will be completed in November
2006.
Lions and LCIF have been the first in many areas to complete
reconstruction projects because Lions are leaders in many
of the communities and have been integral in working with
the government. There is still much to do, but we have a come
a long way, and Lions should great pride in what we've accomplished
together thus far. Because Lions gave so generously, we are
able to make a great lasting impact.
With a Passion to Serve,
Dr. Ashok Mehta
2006-2007 LCIF Chairperson
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