The Buffalo Hosts Lions Club, in partnership with Western New York Independent Living, Inc. Family of Agencies (WNYIL), has donated $10,000 to provide holiday groceries for Buffalo residents with disabilities and their families.
WNYIL will lead outreach and distribution efforts to ensure the funds reach households with the greatest need. Each family identified through WNYIL’s network will receive a grocery gift card by mail, offering them the freedom to shop at their local stores for the foods that best meet their needs. The initiative aims to relieve some of the financial strain many families experience during the holidays while preserving their independence and dignity of choice.
“This partnership between the Buffalo Host Lions Club and WNYIL is about stepping up for our neighbors when they need it most,” said Kevin Smith, Buffalo Host Lions Club President. “These gift cards are a small but meaningful way to ease the burden and remind families that their community sees them, values them, and stands beside them.”
Stephanie Orlando, CEO of WNYIL Inc., said, “With ongoing disruptions to SNAP benefits, many individuals with disabilities and their families are facing even greater challenges in putting food on the table. At WNYIL, we see this struggle every day. That’s why we’re especially grateful for the Buffalo Host Lions Club’s generous donation. Their support allows us to provide immediate relief to those most affected, helping ensure that no one in our community goes without during the holidays.”
For more information on Buffalo Host Lions Club, or membership inquiries, email: djusiak1974@gmail.com. For more information on the WNY Independent Living Inc. Family of Agencies and their programs and services, please contact, (716) 836-0822, Ext. 147.