New Baltimore Lions Club – Serving Our Community

 

Each year, members of the New Baltimore Lions Club take to the street corners of our community for one of Lions Clubs International’s most recognizable and meaningful traditions: the White Cane Fundraiser. You may see Lions volunteers standing at major intersections throughout New Baltimore, Michigan, greeting drivers and pedestrians while collecting donations that directly support programs for people who are blind or visually impaired.

 

What Is the White Cane?

 

The white cane is a globally recognized symbol of independence and mobility for people who are blind or visually impaired. First introduced in the early 20th century and widely adopted after World War II, the white cane helps individuals safely navigate their surroundings by detecting obstacles, changes in terrain, and drop-offs.

 

Beyond its practical use, the white cane is also a symbol of awareness and respect reminding the public to recognize and support the independence of those with vision loss.

 

The Purpose of the White Cane Fundraiser

 

The Lions’ White Cane fundraiser is more than just a collection drive it is part of Lions Clubs’ long-standing commitment to vision care and blindness prevention. Funds raised through this effort help support a variety of programs and services, including:

• Vision screenings for children and adults

• Assistance with eyeglasses for those in need

• Support services for individuals who are blind or visually impaired

• Leader dog and guide dog programs

• Community vision education and outreach initiatives

• Local and state projects that promote eye health and independence for people with vision loss

 

Many of these funds stay within the local community, helping neighbors who may otherwise struggle to access essential vision services.

 

A Tradition of Service

 

The White Cane fundraiser is a proud tradition of the Lions organization, which has focused on vision-related service since Helen Keller challenged the Lions in 1925 to become “Knights of the Blind in the crusade against darkness.” Since then, Lions around the world have worked tirelessly to prevent blindness, restore sight, and improve the lives of people with visual impairments.

 

How the Community Can Help

Michigan is honoring White Cane week April 25 - May 4, 2026. The New Baltimore Lions Club will be canister collecting  within New Baltimore May 1 -May 3, 2026.

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When you see members of the New Baltimore Lions Club standing at intersections with their donation cans and White Cane signs, please consider making a contribution. Every donation large or small helps expand programs that provide independence, dignity, and opportunity for individuals facing vision challenges.

 

Your generosity helps Lions continue their mission: to serve, support vision care, and strengthen our community.