Service groups step up to help

By COLLIN GALLANT on April 9, 2020.

cgallant@medicinehatnews.com@CollinGallant

Local service clubs are echoing a call of solidarity from their respective international leadership to help communities weather the storm caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.

The heads of global organizations of the Rotary, Kiwanis, Optimists and Lions clubs issued a joint letter Tuesday stating their combined 3.2 million members are dedicated to helping out during and after the coronavirus pandemic.

Local club leaders told the News that practical details are still being discussed, and current calls to stay home are challenging but that service clubs exist to support and bolster communities and meet needs.

“The saying is that wherever there’s a need there’s a Lion,” said James Higgins, the president of Lions Club of Medicine Hat.

Higgins said health orders to restrict public gatherings forego the possibility of traditional fundraisers or events, but he’s in contact with each of his members weekly to check in and solicit ideas.

“It’s difficult for (clubs) to support individuals, but if there’s a need for the entire community that’s being overlooked, we’ll have a look at it.”

The international statement could energize members and boost the spirits of the general public, said Higgins.

There are three Lions clubs in the area, including the Community View Lions and another in Redcliff, two groupings of Rotarians and three separate Kiwanis Clubs, plus an Optimists Club, not to mention others – like the Kinsmen, Elks, Moose, and Masons – not included in the joint statement .

“There’s never been any animosity between the clubs, and always an effort to help each other out,” said Ken Murdock, who heads the Kiwanis Club of Medicine Hat.

Murdock said the restrictions have essentially halted club meetings, but could also affect major fundraising efforts, such as casino proceeds.

“Many of our members are older people, in the at-risk category, but we’re trying to find good ways to meet (online) and keep programs going.”

The Lions Club has already donated $25,000 to the Medicine Hat Food Bank, and the local Optimist Club, which has a membership of about 20, donated $1,000 each to the Medicine Hat Food Bank and Mustard Seed to help with immediate needs.

Karen Holmstrom, the president of the local Optimist Club in Medicine Hat, said that she felt invigorated hearing about the solidarity effort.

“We all have our focus, but we all work for the community – that it’s a joint effort is something, well, that’s really special,” she said.

A statement from the top officials at all four clubs states that, clubs 3.2 million combined members in communities across North America will “leverage strengths” to provide comfort and support to those feeling the effects of isolation and fear.”

“In these times of uncertainty, your local service clubs remain committed to meeting the challenge of finding innovative ways to take action together to help communities around the globe heal and thrive – and become more united than ever.”

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