LCIF has received inquiries from Lions about media coverage of Lions' relief efforts. Lions have received some favorable attention from the media, and LCIF is working with a public relations firm to further publicize the great service of Lions. But you, too, can help spread the word about Lions' assistance to tsunami victims. Following is sample press release for local newspapers, radio and TV stations. Fill in the blanks and fax or e-mail to your local media outlet. Better yet, call the newspaper or TV station to find out the name of the person who handles such press releases and send it directly to that person. Be sure to add your contact information.

Press Release

The _______________ (Lions club or district) has donated ________ (dollar amount) for tsunami victims in South Asia. The donation is part of the US$15 million being mobilized by Lions Clubs International Foundation to provide for immediate relief and long-term rebuilding of communities in South Asia. Based in Oak Brook, Ill., Lions Clubs International Foundation (LCIF) provides grant funding to Lions for large-scale humanitarian projects that help preserve sight, combat disability, promote health or serve youth. Grants also provide immediate assistance following natural disasters and long-term disaster relief for reconstruction efforts. Every dollar donated to LCIF goes toward a grant.

"The tsunami disaster in Asia has prompted a tremendous outpouring of support from Lions around the world, and Lions in the affected countries are working day and night to rebuild their communities," said Dr. Ashok Mehta of Mumbai, India, LCIF Chairperson for 2006-2007.

Supported by LCIF, several thousand local Lions are now constructing homes, orphanages and community center and rebuilding vital infrastructure such as roads and wells from the west coast of India to Thailand and south to Indonesia. Local Lions in hundreds of villages are spearheading reconstruction committees.
LCIF has a 30-year history of disaster relief including two major rebuilding efforts in Asia after recent natural disasters. After an earthquake in Gujart, India, in 2001, LCIF mobilized $2.5 million to rebuild 734 homes, 20 primary schools and a general hospital. In 2000, LCIF provided almost US$500,000 to assist rebuild areas affected by the Orissa cyclone in India. A total of 360 homes, nine community centers, five schools, and two orphanages were constructed.

The real impact of LCIF's assistance to tsunami victims in Asia can be seen in the newly built homes, schools and community centers. This long-term approach plays to the strength of LCIF and Lions, who belong to their communities, understand local needs and know how to get things done. Lions are often civic, business and government leaders. In Sri Lanka, for example, the former president is a Lion, as is the current Minister of Housing.

For more information, visit www.lions-tsunami.org