***PRESS RELEASE ISSUED BY HAILSHAM LIONS’ CLUB***
In view of the current situation, Hailsham’s Lions Club has regrettably cancelled their planned Family Fun Day And Dog Show on 5 July 2020. They are hoping to re-arrange the popular event next year. Their much loved Book Shop is also closed for the duration of the lockdown. Plans to celebrate their 50th birthday have also been postponed.
However, behind scenes the Club has been ‘open for business as usual’ despite its members being in lockdown. Holding regular virtual meetings, it has been able to financially support several local charities and projects. Bearing in mind, all fundraising plans this year so far have been cancelled, the Lions, like all charities, are struggling to meet on going requests for help. However, the Club has been able to support several projects from its limited funds, including the following vital services.
When the Club was approached by Rob Wilkinson from Hailsham’s Cricket Club for help towards his NHS Care Packages project for front line staff, it responded immediately.
Lions’ president Kathy Butler – who is recovering from contracting Coronavirus – said “We didn’t think twice about making a substantial donation to help Rob and his Cricket Club colleagues Harry Chatfeld and Lewis Williams. They had already raised money from their club members and via a Gofundme page but that had run out. These young men sprang into action after watching a video showing an NHS staffer crying at not being able to access food after coming off a long night shift. A local business donated a refrigerated van for their use, and so began the initial delivery of six hundred packages. ”
Hailsham’s Food Bank was another charity desperately needing help. Two Lions’ key workers (Geraldine Gurr and Keith Dickman) purchased vast quantities of personal products to deliver to the Food Bank. The Club also made a donation towards the future purchase of food to help alleviate the unprecedented demands made on the Food Bank.
The Sussex Community Development Association (SCDA) helps people with mental health issues and related illnesses, and, one of their many projects, is to oversee a community allotment. During the last spell of stormy weather, their polytunnel, plants and ancillary equipment were destroyed. Kathy Butler – “We managed to make a contribution towards a new polytunnel which will be ready when this lockdown ends so that SCDA’s members can return to the allotment and re-plant. This is a vital project for so many. Likewise the Sunflowers Mental Health & Well Being CIC project, which I’m happy to say we’ve also been able to help.
“Last week we were contacted by Mary Laxton on behalf of the NHS Angels” Kathy continued. “Previously she oversaw the making of scrub bags and headbands for NHS workers. Now, she has sixty people sewing masks for front line workers. The Police Federation made a donation initially towards Mary sourcing new material for the masks, and the Lions were happy to help out as well. Hailsham’s Mayor, Paul Holbrook, also makes us aware of people needing help at this time.”
These projects are indicative of the way Hailsham Lions are helping others during this pandemic. The Club will consider further requests for financial assistance for as long as its funds last, sent by email to thetearsofaclown@gmail.com, by phone – 0345 8339828 – or via their Facebook page or website www.hailshamlions.co.uk.
Terry Hall, Communications Officer
Hailsham Town Council, Market Street, Hailsham, East Sussex, BN27 2AE
Telephone: 01323 841702 | Email: terry.hall@hailsham-tc.gov.uk