Horley Lions Club (CIO)

Horley Lions Club (CIO), established in 1963 as part of Lions Clubs International, is a volunteer-led community organisation formed by local residents to deliver practical service in Horley and surrounding areas, embodying the Lions ethos of 'We Serve'. Rooted in values of generosity, local responsiveness, and inclusive welfare, it raises funds through events like bonfires, dog shows, and barbecues to address disadvantage, hardship, and social exclusion caused by health issues, poverty, disability, bereavement, or crises. Its hands-on approach includes initiatives like the Warm Over Winter campaign against fuel poverty and Message-in-a-Bottle for health safety, alongside support for isolated older people via partnerships with Re-engage and food banks.

The club prioritises health and wellbeing, poverty relief, independent living, disability support, and aid for children, youth, older people, and families in hardship, funding both acute crises and ongoing needs through grants, projects, and direct aid to individuals, small charities, and community groups. It responds to local emergencies and channels resources to national/international disasters via the Lions global network.

Eligible applicants are UK-registered charities and community groups—or individuals—benefiting residents strictly in Horley, Reigate, Redhill, and nearby Surrey/Sussex villages; it favours small/micro organisations with modest incomes, excluding large nationals unless delivering clear local impact. No religious or political restrictions apply.

Unsolicited applications are welcomed via email to secretary@horleylions.org.uk with details of need and evidence; rolling basis with decisions at monthly meetings (second Wednesday), ideally submitted 10 days prior, and notifications in 4-8 weeks. Typical grants range £250-£2,000 for organisations (£100-£750 for individuals), occasionally up to £3,000; supports one-off projects, core/project costs, and capital for urgent needs. Distinctive for its 100+ volunteers, no paid trustees, and rapid, grassroots responsiveness.