Schumacher Lions Xmas Food Vouchers

New records were set this for the Stan Fowler Christmas Fund. But they’re records volunteers
with the Schumacher Lions Club wished weren’t broken.
Chair Lion J. McCauley provided an update on this year’s fund. To date, $105,825.26 was raised.
We delivered 511 vouchers, each valued at $150. He has been involved in the program for
almost 20 years, he said this was the most people he came out to volunteer for distributing
vouchers. About 40 people, including Lions friends and family, took part. Not only did we have
the most money raised, but we had more help. He thanked everyone for stepping up to help
this Christmas.
The totals were the high because there are more families than ever needing help.
“If we didn’t have to give out a single voucher, I’d be the happiest guy in the world,” he said.
“Because then you know people are being taken care of and they don’t require this.
“Unfortunately, we’re living in a society where it’s just not feasible and the struggle is real. It’s
not just a few. It’s becoming more and more every year.”
He was proud of the support shown from club members.
“I was blown away with the amount of people. I shouldn’t be blown away because I belong to
an incredible club with very giving people,” McCauley explained. “We had more than 30 people
giving out vouchers today. We haven’t seen numbers like that in a very long time.”
Local agencies help with the vetting of requests to make sure those in need get assistance.
Vouchers can’t be used to purchase tobacco or alcohol. No change is provided, so groceries
have to be bought in one visit. Every grocery store in Timmins — except Walmart, which opted
out of the program a few years ago — honours the vouchers, which must be presented with
identification.
As long as there is a need in the community, volunteers will do their best to live up to the club
motto of We Serve.
“We’ll do our part as long as we’re all kicking to try and make life a little easier on people,”
McCauley said. “Especially at Christmas and especially with children.”