Our Programs

 

Lions Eye Bank of Hawaii/Makana Foundation

 

The Hawaii Lions Eye Bank and Makana Foundation (LEBH) remains the primary focus and the major activity of HLF. Currently, is managed under contract with the San Diego Eye Bank whose Executive Director directs the day to day operation of the Eye Bank. It primary objective is to recover corneal tissue for transplant or research.  Education and promotion of organ donation are other objectives.  Click here to learn more.

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Helping Children See

 

The Helping Children See Program (HCS) is funded by the Hawaii Lions Foundation specifically to purchase eye examinations and eyeglass for needy children identified through a Lions Vision Screening Program.  HCS enables parents to better prepare their child for success in school.  Uncorrected vision can severely impact a child’s ability to learn.  The inability to benefit from classroom instruction can have life altering consequences.  The Lions of Hawaii have had a long and proud history of Vision Screening. With HCS we can now close the circle by offering not only vision screening but also a referral to a professional eye care provider and ultimately fulfillment by providing glasses for those children that are under insured or not insured at all.

 

Working in partnership with Hawaii’s Walmart Vision Centers, as well as various Eye Care Professionals, we are able to offer the best care and product for the children we serve. For those that are eligible, Hawaii Lions Foundation, with assistance from our partners, are able to provide an eye exam and a pair of glasses for free.

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Grants in Aid

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Our Grant-in-Aid program is intended to assist, enable and support the Lions Clubs of District 50 to promote and achieve the objectives and purposes of the Hawaii Lions Foundation that fall within the organization’s mission as provided under its Charter of Incorporation. 

Only Lions Clubs, Zones, or Regions of  District 50 may apply for these grants but do so in support of another party. Project requirements include:

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1. Significant hands-on participation by members of the Lions of District 50.

2. Address a demonstrated need in the community.

3. Matching funds provided by requestor supported by recent financial report evidencing capacity.

4. Strengthen Lions presence in the community and/or increase opportunities for public awareness.

5. Have measurable outcomes.

 

Grants are awarded in any amount up to a maximum of $3,000 per project. No more than three (3) grants may be approved from the same source per annum; exceptions could be reviewed on a case by case basis at the discretion of Hawaii Lions Foundation.

Grant funds are to be used to promote community projects that fulfill HLF’s mission and purpose such as:

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1. Operational expenses

2. Equipment and supplies

3. Educational materials

 

Funds may NOT be used for:

1. Donations to other organizations or individuals

2. Club fundraising projects

3. Consulting services

4. Deficit financing

5. Speaker fees

6. Stipends for Lion members

 

Partnerships with other Lions Clubs, non-profit agencies, service clubs and public/private programs are encouraged.