By Jessica Morrow

The London Lions Club is rolling out a new service project aimed at helping local seniors with small household repairs. Partnering with the Madison County Senior Citizens Center, the Lions hope to fill a gap for older residents who may not have anyone else to call when everyday problems arise.

Club President/London City Councilman Greg Eades said the idea grew naturally out of community need and new membership.

“We had a few people in the community reach out looking for help, and we thought this would be a great way to get our new members involved while meeting a real need,” Eades said.

The projects may seem simple, but for seniors, they can make a big difference.

“Small handyman or light cleaning projects that can be done in a few hours are what we’re focusing on,” Eades said. “For example, there is a lady that wants an exterior door painted. Other projects might be changing light bulbs and furnace filters, replacing switch plate covers, cleaning a floor or moving furniture.”

The service is designed specifically with seniors in mind.

“These projects may not seem like a big deal, but to some people they really are. We thought the seniors might need a little help,” Eades said.

The Lions are also keeping safety at the forefront.

“One of our members is calling the people that have requested help so we have a better idea of what is needed,” Eades said. “We will work in teams, and that way if someone needs to climb a ladder, there will be someone there to hold the ladder and keep an eye on things. The Lions Club members will introduce themselves and will show ID to anyone who asks.”

Seniors who need help can call the Madison County Senior Citizens Center at (740) 852-3001. The service is free, though residents are asked to provide their own supplies such as filters or bulbs. Donations to the Lions’ philanthropic fund are welcome.

For the Lions, it’s about lending a hand where it’s most needed.

“Right now, it’s one house at a time. If this goes well, we would like to continue the project,” Eades said.

Anyone interested in volunteering or learning more about the Lions Club can contact Eades at (740) 604-0080 or Secretary Gary Likens at (505) 934-9700. The group meets the first and third Tuesday of each month at 6:30 p.m. at MATCO Services (204 Maple St.), and all are welcome.