Aldridge Lions show local Lions work

Aldridge & District Lions Club were approached some weeks ago by the Walsall Citizens Advice Office to see if they would be able to help with a family in need in the Brownhills area.

A young man in the area had been living with his step brother and father but the father had passed away suddenly and unexpectedly leaving the man alone to look after his young step brother. To do so he had to give up his full time work with the plan to take on some part time employment – something he has been unable to do mainly as a result of the current employment climate.

To further compound the problem, the reduction in the family income meant that the mortgage payments were unable to be maintained and repossession action was started. Fortunately, the house was purchased by a housing association which has granted the brothers to remain in residence.

The Lions visited and interviewed the man and decided that his case was certainly one deserving support and there were many needs which could have been considered. One of the wishes of the man was to let the young brother have his own bedroom and space as he was coming to an age when he would need somewhere independent. The father’s old room was in a very poor state and, although the man had stripped the walls and prepared for decorating, he was unable to pay for this to be done.

The Lions Club have now arranged for the room to be decorated and have paid for both the work and materials. They have also arranged for a new carpet and bed to be installed. Lions Club President, Clyde Redfern said, “The Club were moved by the story behind this project and unanimously agreed to give some support. However, we are extremely grateful to others who have added their own support and made the whole project possible. Carpets Direct 2U in Aldridge have given a generous discount for both the supply and fitting of the carpet and The Bed Warehouse in Perry Barr donated the bed and mattress totally free. Both we and the recipients are very grateful to both of these businesses for their support.”

Today, two of the Lions Club members have visited again the house to see the finished bedroom. Both the man and his brother are very pleased with the finished room. They are now looking forward to a better future. The man said, “We are both very grateful to the Lions for their help and support. It has certainly been of great benefit to us during a time that has been most difficult.”

Lion Clyde said, “The Lions help with many programmes on an International scale – we have been instrumental in the assistance with the Haiti support – and support many National causes. This is just one great example of our help at a local level.”