Lions Club Intl Foundation & Lions District Establish VC Lions Clubs Diabetes Care Collaborative

VENTURA, Calif. - July 12, 2024 - PRLog -- Lions Clubs International Foundation (LCIF) has awarded a $100,000 matching grant to Lions District 4-A3. This funding will support the Ventura County Lions Clubs Diabetes Care Collaborative. Partnering with Lions District 4-A3, the Health Care Foundation for Ventura County (HCFVC) aims to improve diabetes outcomes.

The completion of this project will impact the lives of individuals struggling with diabetes. Prior to this project, the County of Ventura Health Care Agency (VCHCA) did not have the financial resources to procure diagnostic equipment needed to adequately service the growing number of Ventura County residents living with diabetes. This project will focus on prevention, education, and support to mitigate the vision and health-related impacts of diabetes on our community. The impact of this project is significant, with over 33,000 patients within VCHCA's system diagnosed with diabetes poised to directly benefit.

Lions Club International adopted the cause of diabetes as one their pillars of service worldwide to combat the significant rise in Type 2 diabetes. "We know that where there is a need, there is a Lion and the Foundation is committed to empowering Lions to meet the needs in their local communities," says Dr. Jitsuhiro Yamada, International Chairperson for LCIF's US $300 million capital campaign, Campaign 100.

"Through support from people in our community and LCIF, we ensure that everyone, especially vulnerable populations in Ventura County, has access to the necessary resources to manage and prevent diabetes. Together, we are working to foster a healthier community and improve the quality of life for all. Thank you, Lions Clubs, for your commitment to diabetes care and health equity", said Barry Zimmerman Director of VCHCA.

Since its chartering in 1957, Lions District 4-A3 has supported diabetes and vision projects, including the Magic Yarn Project, Lions Camp at Teresita Pines, and Vision Equipment for Ventura County Diabetes Clinic through a 2018 LCIF Matching Grant. Fundraising proceeds have also supported the Student Speaker Foundation. Currently, the district is working to establish a Diabetes Awareness Health Expo and a Mobile Eye Clinic.

Lions Clubs International Foundation (LCIF) supports 1.4 million members of Lions Clubs International by providing grants that amplify their humanitarian efforts worldwide. Since its establishment in 1968, LCIF has awarded over 20,000 grants totaling more than $1.2 billion, significantly enhancing health, empowering communities, and assisting those in need on a global scale. For further details about LCIF and its impactful contributions, please visit lionsclubs.org/lcif.

Locally, Lions District 4-A3 comprises over 1,100 members spread across 32 clubs, committed to addressing community needs and serving the region. To learn more about their initiatives or to get involved, please reach out to Lions District 4-A3 Governor Rich Cervantes at (805) 443-0474 or visit our website at lionsdistrict4a3.org.