In the mid 1940’s the Bellringer Fund was started by Frank and Mabel Raab. Frank was a charter member of the Poulsbo Lions Club and challenged the club and North Kitsap community to help those families in need during the Christmas holiday. The proceeds of the fund drive were used by the Lions Club to purchase food and gifts for families in need. Members of the Lions Club then distributed these items.
The Herald helped with the challenge by publishing the donations and followed the actions of the Lions. Local churches and similar organizations provided the lists of families. The fund drive has run uninterrupted since.
As time passed the fund drive was able to raise significant funds and in one year raised over $35,000.
Last year despite the Covid-19 pandemic the fund raised over $17,000. The goal for this year is $25,000.
The Lions Club, while still sponsoring the drive, no longer distributes food and gifts but rather distributes the funds to Fishline, ShareNet, St. Vincent DePaul and Coffee Oasis.
To make a donation it can be mailed to: Lions Club Bellringer Fund, P.O. Box 1244, Poulsbo, WA 98370 or by selecting the donate button in the right side column. All donations are tax deductible.
