Lismore Lions Club closes 2022 flood appeal after distributing $600,000

THE Lismore Lions Club has closed its 2022 flood appeal after distributing more than $600,000 to households affected by flooding.

Club president Brian Johnson said all appeal funds had now been fully utilised.

More than 425 local households received assistance, primarily through the purchase of essential household items including fridges, bedding and washing machines.

Gift cards were also provided to support the purchase of smaller essential items.

The appeal operated for an extended period as requests for assistance continued to be received from people returning to repaired or newly built homes.

Funds were raised through local fundraising efforts, donations from other Lions Clubs and support from the Australian Lions Foundation.

The club was assisted by the St Vincent de Paul Society and Social Futures Recovery Connect in assessing applications for support.

Local retailers including Betta Lismore, Bryant’s Beds and Mattresses, Instyle Sleepcentre and Bi-Rite Appliances supplied goods at reduced prices.

The club also provided free food to volunteer workers in the Lismore CBD for several weeks following the two major floods.

Some food was supplied by the club, with additional donations provided by local businesses and community members.

Mr Johnson said the club was grateful for the support received during the appeal.

“The club would like to acknowledge the help of all concerned with the appeal and is proud to have been able to help all those that were in need, after such a devastating flood,” he said.

Lismore Lions Club was formed in 1947 and was the first Lions Club established in Australia.