<p>August 14, 2014</p><p>Dear Fellow Lions, </p><p>On Sunday, a terrible tragedy occurred. A large earthquake struck the Yunnan Province of China. Authorities estimate that nearly 600 people have lost their lives from the Zhaotong earthquake, with an additional 2,800 people injured across several counties. Even more people are missing. It is estimated that more than 25,500 homes were completely destroyed, with an even higher number of houses damaged. </p><p>Lions Clubs International Foundation (LCIF) immediately awarded a US$250,000 Major Catastrophe Grant with money from the disaster relief fund, allowing Lions in affected areas to immediately begin providing assistance. These funds will help meet immediate needs by providing food, water, medicine, blankets and other necessities as quickly as possible. The funds will also support long-term reconstruction and recovery. </p><p>With approximately 21,000 Lions members in China, many of our fellow Lions have been directly impacted by this disaster. We must help them as they provide relief and assistance to their affected communities. I encourage you to consider making a donation to the Foundation for disaster relief. Donations to the disaster relief fund are Melvin Jones Fellowship eligible and can make a real difference in times of need. </p><p>Thank you to the Clubs in the District that have already supported this Appeal. </p><p>Overview of Current Situation</p><p>There is a new standard Grant Criteria, the new standard grant has a new minimum request amount for matching funds of US $10,000 dollars. The new maximum request amount for matching funds is $100,000 dollars. The expanded criteria now allows LCIF to help even more Lions meet the needs of their communities with a standard grant.</p><p>One Shot, One Life – Lions Measles Initiative</p><p>LCIF is still working with the Gates Foundation and the initiative still continues so please consider supporting this program as it is eligible for future Melvin Jones Fellowships.</p><p>100 % Contributing Members Clubs</p><p>I would urge Clubs to consider becoming 100% Contributing Members Clubs. The cost is $20 Dollars equivalent to approx £12.00 per Member and can be paid out of their Charity Accounts, this is a way that Clubs can support LCIF. Each Member will receive a Contributing Members lapel pin and 100 % Clubs will be recognised with a Banner Patch.</p><p>Continued……</p><p>WE CARE, WE SERVE, WE ACCOMPLISH Melvin Jones Fellowship Program</p><p>There are five special program areas which qualify for an MJF these are:</p><p> Disaster  Humanitarian needs (including donations to the Measles Initiative)  Sight  Youth  Area of Greatest Needs</p><p>I Urge Clubs to try and support these programmes.</p><p>LCIF is totally transparent and has a fiduciary responsibility and the infrastructure to administer Lions Funds and to give recognition. </p><p>I would urge Clubs when there are any future disasters to give to the Lions International Disaster Fund, at least you will know your money is being used and not stuck in a Multiple District bank account as is the Balcan Flood Disaster Appeal Fund that you so generously gave to.</p><p>My Objectives for the year</p><p> To keep Clubs informed by producing regular newsletters  To visit Clubs when invited  To give Presentations at Zone Meetings if the opportunity arises.</p><p>I will also be organizing a Workshop at the upcoming District Convention.</p><p>For additional information please visit www.lcif.org</p><p>Lion Stefan H Erentraut LCIF Donations and Recognitions Coordinator for MD105 & District 105E LCIF Coordinator </p><p>WE CARE, WE SERVE, WE ACCOMPLISH</p>