COCHRANE NOW – Written by Noel Edey Thursday, Mar 24, 2022 3:00 PM
A $15,000 donation by the Cochrane Lions Clubs topped up the funds required for the Helping Hands Society of Cochrane and Area to purchase a van to further enhanced its services for vulnerable people in the community.
The van is now on the road and already being put to good use.
“We were really happy that the Lions Club reached out to us and were able to give us such a generous donation,” says Helping Hands executive director Chairra Nicolle.
“It will be used primarily for food rescue and food drives, but it will also be used anytime we have moves within the community for our vulnerable population. So now with U-Haul not being in the community, we have the opportunity to provide low income and low fund moves throughout Cochrane and area.”
Lions Club president Chris Connon praised the nonprofit organization for its service work. He says that’s why its membership stepped forward with the donation.
“We heard they were raising funds for the van and we continued to watch along. They came and made a presentation and gave us all the ins and outs of what they were doing, and the club agreed to support them.”
The fundraising campaign for the van got its first major lift last October with a $25,000 donation by Cochrane Home Treasures, a nonprofit second-hand store.
Next up for the Lions Club is the return of their popular Spring Barn Dance on Apr. 30. Tickets go on sale Apr. 1 online through Showpass. It features the popular band TC and Company.
“Make sure you get your tickets early because I imagine it’s going to be another sell-out,” says Connon.
Like any Lions event, any proceeds go right back into the community.
