By Precious D. Freeman
The Greater Monrovia Lions Club (GMLC) and the Monrovia Cedar Atlantic Lions Club have initiated a project that provides essential school supplies to young learners in need.
With a total project worth of US$800, the clubs donated 100 school bags filled with various educational accessories to two local schools: Monrovia Demonstration Elementary School and More Than Me Academy.
The donation ceremony took place on a sunny afternoon at both schools, where students eagerly awaited their new backpacks.
The first vice president of GMLC, Benedict F. Sannoh, addressed the crowd, highlighting the importance of providing students with a conducive learning environment.
“As students prepare to return to school, they face numerous challenges, and while we cannot meet all their needs, we strive to alleviate some of their burdens,” Sannoh remarked.
He further explained that the initiative aims to assist students who may not have the necessary resources for school.
“We recognized that many children start school without basic supplies, so we decided to support them with book bags, copybooks, pens, and erasers. This is just the beginning; we promise to return with more assistance in the future,” he added.
As the school year unfolds, the Greater Monrovia Lions Club and the Monrovia Cedar Atlantic Lions Club are not stopping here.
Plans are already underway for future initiatives aimed at further supporting local schools and their students. “This is just the start of our commitment to education,” Sannoh affirmed. “We intend to build lasting partnerships with schools to ensure that all students have access to the resources they need to succeed.”
The president of GMLC, Bobby Livingstone echoed Sannoh’s sentiments. He expressed hope that the donations would significantly impact the students’ school experience, making it easier for them to carry their books and supplies.
“We want our presence here today to symbolize our commitment to education and community support,” Livingstone stated.
He emphasized the value of community involvement, saying, “Little acts of kindness can lead to great changes when fueled by love and concern.”
Reflecting on his own educational journey, Livingstone shared, “Thirty to forty years ago, we were once in your shoes, sitting in these very classrooms. Today, we return to give back because we believe in the potential of every student here. You are the future leaders, presidents, engineers, and representatives of our country.”
The excitement among the students was palpable as Lions Club members distributed the book bags. Each bag included essential items like pens, copybooks, and erasers, providing students with the tools they need for academic success.
Fifty bags were allocated to Monrovia Demonstration Elementary School, while the remaining fifty went to More Than Me Academy.
Following the distribution, Principal June Cole of Monrovia Demonstration Elementary School expressed her heartfelt appreciation for the Lions Club’s generous contribution.
“This donation is monumental for our school. Many of our students struggle to afford these basic supplies, and your support is truly a blessing. We are incredibly grateful that you chose to assist us,” she said, her voice filled with emotion.
The impact of the Lions Club’s initiative extends beyond mere material support; it sends a strong message about the importance of community involvement in education.
By addressing the needs of students, the clubs foster a culture of support and encouragement that can inspire others to take similar actions.
The back-to-school project by the Greater Monrovia Lions Club and Monrovia Cedar Atlantic Lions Club serves as a testament to the power of community engagement.
By coming together to support local students, these organizations demonstrate that collective efforts can make a meaningful difference in the lives of young learners.
As the academic year begins, the hope is that this initiative will inspire not only the students who received the donations but also the entire community to invest in the future of its children.
