Children to gain from Lions’ efforts

devon.editorial@archant.co.uk
02 July 2009

BUDLEIGH Salterton Lions Club is appealing for people to dig deep and get behind its efforts to raise much-needed funds for orphaned youngsters affected with HIV and AIDs.

Some six years ago, the town's Lions joined forces with doctors and medical staff at the Good Shepherd Hospital, in Siteki, Swaziland and, since then have donated £80 a month for vital medical supplies.

From today, until Saturday, July 4, the Lions Club members will be out in force in Budleigh selling raffle tickets and organising a host of activities to raise extra funds for the hospital.

Lion member Geoff Paver said: "It is now six years since we joined the League of Friends of the hospital, which deals with children, a huge percent of whom are orphans, suffering from AIDs and HIV-related illnesses and, thanks to local generous support each year, we have been able to send them £80 a month, which is a fortune to them.

"This helps to pay the hospital bills so they can leave the hospital, as in many cases the children become sick again due to exposure to other patients with infections - and it was for this reason the fund was set up.

"Also, through our charity golf day last year, we have been able to send the surgeon a laparotomy set and more toys for the children."

Today and tomorrow (Thursday and Friday) raffle tickets, with a top prize of £50, are being sold in the town.

Cash bingo will be held in the Public Hall, on Friday, July 3, with eyes down at 7.30pm. The more people playing - the higher the prizes.

And on Saturday, July 4, a jumble sale will be held in the Public Hall, Station Road, from 2pm.

Anyone wishing to donate jumble can take it along to the bingo session, or on the morning of the sale.

Volunteers are needed to help at the jumble sale from 8am.

For more information, or to volunteer, contact Geoff Paver on (01395) 445298.