GRAVETTE -- Members of the Gravette Lions Club will hold their annual White Cane Day on Friday, April 26. They will set up a table in front of Harp's grocery store and accept donations to help with their sight conservation work.
White Cane Day began in 1930 when a Lion's Club member watched a blind man crossing a busy street with a black cane. Realizing the dark cane was hardly visible, the club decided to paint it white to make it more visible to oncoming motorists.
The first special White Cane Ordinance was passed in Peoria, Ill. It granted blind pedestrians protection and the right-of-way whenever they were using a white cane.
Gravette Lions would appreciate the community's support in raising funds for their work. All funds donated are used to assist people in the immediate area. Members of the club have provided assistance to people needing eye exams or eyeglasses who are not financially able to purchase them alone. Five people were helped to get eyeglasses, and two cataract surgeries were funded in the last year.
The Gravette Lions Club meets at 12:30 p.m. on the first and third Tuesdays of each month at the Billy V. Hall Senior Activity and Wellness Center. Prospective members and other guests are always welcome.