When Yulia Zmerzla stepped into the role of Executive Director at the Lions Foundation of Manitoba and Northwestern Ontario in February 2025, she quickly found herself immersed in stories that underscore just how critical access to care can be.
From helping families travel to Winnipeg for life-changing treatment to ensuring children receive early vision and hearing screenings, the Foundation’s work often fills gaps left by the healthcare system. As demand continues to grow—particularly for early detection programs—Zmerzla is now helping lead an ambitious next step: taking those services on the road to reach children in rural and remote communities who might otherwise go without.
We spoke with Zmerzla about what she’s seen so far, the impact behind the numbers, and how the Foundation is working to bring care closer to home.
Describe your charity/non-profit/volunteer work in a few sentences.
For over 40 years, the Lions Foundation of Manitoba and Northwestern Ontario has been dedicated to removing barriers to care for those facing financial hardship. The Foundation provides financial support to families in need and delivers free vision and hearing services for children, including access to screenings, eyeglasses, hearing aids, and follow-up care. This kind of support is especially vital for individuals whose medical needs are not covered by provincial healthcare in Manitoba and Northwestern Ontario.
What problem does it aim to solve?
Our four main pillars:
● Serenity Suites – Provides affordable, fully furnished accommodations for individuals and families travelling to Winnipeg for medical treatment.
● Simply Sound – Lions Hearing Programs – Supports, promotes, develops, and fosters initiatives that assist individuals experiencing hearing loss.
● Giving Glances – Lions Vision Screening Program – In partnership with regional Lions Clubs, this quick and simple screening program helps detect potential vision issues in children. Within minutes, parents and caregivers are advised if a follow-up with an eye care professional is recommended. The Lions Foundation also collects and recycles eyeglasses and hearing aids for people in developing countries. As of 2024, over 63,000 pairs of eyeglasses and 500 sets of hearing aids have been shipped worldwide.
● Helping Hands – Provides financial assistance for medical travel, rehabilitation, mobility equipment, and other essential needs not covered by the healthcare system.
When did you start/join it?
February 2025
What made you want to get involved?
Since stepping into this role in February 2025, I have had the privilege of witnessing our profound impact on our communities and the deep, transformative connections we foster between Lions and community members.
What was the situation like when you started?
One of the most rewarding aspects of my role has been seeing the positive impact of our programs Giving Glances, Simply Sound, Helping Hands and Serenity Suites, and the powerful stories of those we serve have been constant reminders of why our work is so essential.
How has it changed since?
The demand for our KindSight and Kids Hearing Programs has been growing. Recognizing the importance of early detection and growing interest to our services, the Lions Foundation launched the Bringing Care Closer initiative: a fully equipped mobile outreach unit that will provide free vision and hearing screenings directly in schools, daycares and community events.
What more needs to be done?
Beginning in September 2026, a fully equipped mobile outreach unit, complete with advanced optometry and audiology devices, will hit the road. It will visit schools, daycares, community centres, and public events across Manitoba and Northwestern Ontario. While we’ll also bring these services to larger cities, our primary focus will be on rural and remote communities where access to healthcare is often limited.
How can our readers help?
By supporting Bringing Care Closer, you are investing in a project that is both innovative and grounded in decades of trusted service. You’ll be helping children right here at home, ensuring that no matter where they live, they have the chance to see, hear, learn, and thrive.
We invite you to join us as a partner in Bringing Care Closer. Your generosity will help us reach thousands of children, open doors to learning, and change lives for the better. Together, we can remove barriers to care and give children the healthy start they deserve.
To donate: please, visit: https://give-can.keela.co/donation-form163
Do you have any events coming up?
Lions Foundation 45th Anniversary Gala Celebration and Fundraiser, which will take place at the Canadian Museum of Human Rights (Winnipeg, MB) on September 19, 2026.
All proceeds from the event will go to children’s hearing and sight programs. With the KidSight and Kids Hear early detection programs we offer life-changing results for children in our communities.
Where can we follow you?
Website | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn
PAY IT FORWARD: What is an awesome local charity that you love?
The Winnipeg Foundation
