Esther Lauaki
Taylors Lakes Lions Club has been dishing out jigsaw puzzles, Iso Survival Kits, 150 masks and 2000 chocolate biscuits to Brimbank aged care residents and the community’s most vulnerable.
The club’s Pandemic Support Project aimed to assist our local Retirement Villages and aged care residents as well as victims of family violence.
Vice president and secretary Phil Clinkaberry said the project was a mammoth task for a worthwhile cause.
“With the impact of the Coronavirus restrictions starting back in April, the club was initially bewildered and unsure, reflective of the feeling of the population in many ways,” Mr Clinkberry said..
“Our first ever Zoom meeting focussed us and we resolved to conduct community service in ways that would not pose a risk to the community or to members, at the same time taking away at least some of the anxiety and loss of direction being experienced by many.
“We established a multi-pronged plan, and committed our support to a group that, as we all know, are among the most vulnerable with the virus – our aged residents – as well as victims of family violence.”
The club funded around $1000 worth of jigsaws from its budget and created an Iso Survival Kit newsletter with tips, ideas, puzzles and jokes to keep residents occupied while staying home.
Thousands of home-made biscuit packs made by one member and a chocolate pack were also distributed.
“We also made it known that we were up for a chat to support lonely residents.
“The club committed to seeking material, cutting out and pinning and, of course, sewing, 150 masks and presented them to the residents of the Lakes Retirement Village.
With enthusiasm for sewing waning, we then committed to providing each resident of the Keilor and Taylors Hill villages with some disposable masks, sponsored by the club.
“The club is pleased and honoured to have supported people in these ways and will, as the need arises, continue to do so.
“It has been most gratifying to receive letters and calls of thanks from the elderly residents, showing us that we have hit the mark.”
