VERGENNES — The Vergennes Lions Club is wrapping up their 2016-17 year by helping several local organizations. The club has several fundraisers throughout the year to support these donations, including the vehicle raffle, the Red Sox ticket raffle, scholarship raffle, Lions Charity Auction and Memorial Day sale items. President Jim McClay says, “This would not be possible without the tremendous support of everyone in our greater Vergennes area communities.” 
Mary Ann Castimore, from the Vergennes Community Food Shelf, attended a recent meeting and was presented with two checks — one for $750 from the club and one for $250, which was the amount folks donated during the Food from the Heart food drive.
Elizabeth Ready, director of John Graham Shelter, was presented with a check for $750 to help meet the needs of the residents who end up at the shelter. Ms. Ready mentioned the number of folks at the shelter and transitional housing and how there has been an increase in the number of children involved.
The club donated $350 to the Counseling Service of Addison County to assist their clients who need support. They also donated $500 to the Boys and Girls Club of Greater Vergennes Area to provide food for the young people who come to the club on a daily basis.  In some cases, this could be the only evening meal they would receive.
On June 7, Jane Spencer, director of the Bixby Library, spoke at the club about the many and increasing programs being offered at the library, and encouraged members to stop by. She also thanked several Lions members who have or are serving on the board of directors.  A check for $950 was presented to Mrs. Spencer to further support the library.