Letter from President of the Seekonk Lions Club

As President of the Seekonk Lions Club, I am proud to share an exciting development that reflects Lions commitment to the health and well-being of our community. Recognizing the urgent and growing need for behavioral health emergency services, our club has made a meaningful donation to support the expansion of a new Emergency Behavioral Health unit at Beth Israel Deaconess Hospital Plymouth.

This initiative is more important than ever, as we see rising numbers of mental health crises, substance-use episodes, and emotional distress affecting individuals and families across our area. To address this, the new unit will more than double the current capacity, offering 16 dedicated rooms to provide safe, compassionate care for those in need. Of particular importance are the 8 beds reserved specifically for pediatric patients experiencing a behavioral health crisis, ensuring the areas’ youngest community members receive the specialized support they deserve.

Contributing to this expanded facility is a collaborative effort, with the Lions Club of Plymouth and Lions District 33S working together to make a profound impact. Lions Clubs International Foundation (LCIF) has committed to match, dollar for dollar, the first $75,000 raised in support of the new Emergency Behavioral Health initiative.

When combined, this generous gift will total $150,000—doubling the impact of every dollar contributed. Lions’ clubs across the district are encouraged to contribute to this initiative. This bold investment underscores the Lions' dedication to supporting mental health and ensuring those in need receive compassionate care and assistance.

This project is more than just an expansion; it’s a lifeline for many. It embodies our Lions Club’s commitment to building healthier, stronger communities where everyone has access to the care they need during their most difficult moments. Fellow Seekonk Lions Club members and I are honored to be part of this effort and look forward to seeing the positive change it will bring.

If you would like to contribute, please go to the Plymouth Lions Website at http://www.theplymouthlions.org/  by clicking “LCIF Grant". If you would like to ask any questions, please contact Kevin O’Keefe at (781) 264-5183.

On a personal note, I recently learned of the passing of Dilia M Morgado of Dighton, a longtime supporter of the Lions’ Doug Allan Memorial Fishing Tournament. Dilia, co-owner of the Purple Cow in Seekonk/Pawtucket with her husband Steven, lost a courageous battle with breast cancer in August 2025.

Dilia and Steven were among the first to support our fishing tournament, often participating with their children and generously donating gift cards for ice cream and Purple Cow garb for prizes. Dilia was always kind, pleasant, and steadfast in her support. My deepest sympathy goes to the Morgado family.

Paul