Lions reach Ronald McDonald House goal
It's been four long years of selling, hosting, trail bike rides and fireworks, but Masterton Host Lions Waipoua Club have now reached their $50,000 fundraising target to help rebuild a Ronald McDonald House.
Club president George Norris said it was part of a regional Lions Club drive to raise $800,000 for the charity, which assists families of hospitalised children by providing them with free accommodation and support.
"The public got right in behind the fundraising effort. Every person in this town might need it one day," said Mr Norris.
He said they initially had a goal of $30,000, but extended it to $50,000 after some success.
"They just needed the money so we decided to do it."
To raise the money, members sold firewood, Christmas trees, hosted a group of Lincoln University students, ran trail bike rides and raised money at the Solway fireworks display.
And in a nice touch, the money raised by regional Lions Clubs has earned them naming rights for one of the rooms in the new house - The Lions' Den.
The charity is currently rebuilding its Wellington house, opposite Wellington Hospital on Riddiford St.
Mr Norris will be presenting a cheque to Ronald McDonald House chief executive Wayne Howett tonight.
