Incredible Service Expansion: Melvin Jones Memorial Charitable Trust's Journey
Lion Kalyani Rangarajan
In 2014, the Melvin Jones Memorial Charitable Trust was established by the Lions International of Keelkattalai in District 324J with the aim of serving underprivileged communities on the outskirts of Chennai, India. The trust embarked on an inspiring journey of growth, introducing vital healthcare facilities to areas lacking medical resources. Over the years, the trust has made significant strides in providing dialysis services, establishing a blood bank, acquiring a medical van, and opening a diagnostic centre. With the unwavering support of Lions, trustees, and the district, the trust's services have positively impacted the lives of thousands of people in need.
Addressing Medical Scarcity:
Recognizing the scarcity of medical facilities in Kovilambakkam, an area in South Chennai encompassing approximately 40 villages, the then District Governor Lion P Elangovan proposed the establishment of a dialysis unit. The necessary approvals were obtained from Kovilambakkam Town Panchayat and the District Collectorate of Thiruvallur. With support from 51 trustees representing various clubs in the district, the Melvin Jones Memorial Dialysis Unit commenced operations with six dialysis machines. Today, the unit operates nine machines in two shifts, serving 18 patients and benefiting over 30,000 individuals thus far.
Government Recognition and Blood Bank Initiative:
Notably, the Melvin Jones Memorial Dialysis Unit became the first standalone dialysis unit in the history of Tamil Nadu to receive approval under the Chief Minister Comprehensive Health Insurance Scheme (CMCHIS). This recognition enabled the trust to provide free dialysis services to those in need, significantly reducing the financial burden on patients. Encouraged by this success, the trust expanded its services by establishing a blood bank in an adjacent building. This initiative, spearheaded by the then District Governor Lion Suresh, became the first Lions Blood Bank in South Chennai and the second in the city. Currently, the blood bank supports over 300 people every fortnight, contributing to the critical availability of blood for medical emergencies.
Extending Reach with a Medical Van:
In January 2022, the Melvin Jones Memorial Charitable Trust received a generous donation from Mrs. Aruna Abhey Oswal, who provided a medical van. This vehicle enabled the trust to reach individuals who lacked access to basic medical facilities. Over 8,000 patients have benefited from the services provided by the medical van, which includes preliminary diagnosis and referrals to nearby hospitals for further treatment. The trust's outreach efforts have made a direct and significant impact on the lives of those in need.
A Diagnostic Center and Blood Collection Vehicle:
In the year 2021-22, under the leadership of the District Governor, the trust added a diagnostic centre to its existing infrastructure. This new facility offers affordable diagnostic services, outpatient consultations, dialysis, and blood donation services, further enhancing the trust's ability to serve the community. Additionally, recognising the challenges faced in collecting blood in remote areas, the trust acquired a blood collection vehicle in January 2023. This vehicle, generously supported by Past District Governor Lion Shiva Kumar, ensures that blood donations can be efficiently collected from remote regions, strengthening the trust's ability to support those in need.
Touching Lives, Inspiring Hope:
One such life transformed by the trust's services is that of Palani, a 32-year-old patient from a nearby village suffering from kidney ailments. Unable to afford dialysis treatment, Palani found solace and support at the Melvin Jones Memorial Dialysis Unit, where he received life-saving treatment through CMCHIS. Palani and his family express deep gratitude to the Lions and trustees for their role in saving his life. Numerous stories of beneficiaries like Palani bear testimony to the trust's profound impact on the community.
A Future of Service and Growth:
With the remarkable encouragement and support from the District Governor, Lions, and trustees, the Melvin Jones Memorial Charitable Trust is poised for further growth and expansion. The trust remains committed to extending its helping hand to the poor and needy in the area, continuing to serve as a beacon of hope and support in the community.
The Melvin Jones Memorial Charitable Trust's journey of growth and service in District 324J is a testament to the power of collective action and compassion. From establishing a dialysis unit to running a blood bank, acquiring a medical van, and opening a diagnostic center, the trust has positively impacted the lives of thousands of individuals in need. Through the unwavering support of Lions, trustees, and the district, the trust's services have touched hearts, inspiring hope and paving the way for a brighter, healthier future for the community.