In 1984 the Lions Eye Bank of Manitoba & Northwest Ontario was established as a separate registered non-profit charitable organization to focus on eye health, including corneal transplants, human eye tissue collection, eye-related medical research and organ donor advocacy.

Lions Foundation of Manitoba and Northwestern Ontario and it’s programs are governed by a volunteer Board of Directors. Financial support is provided by Lions Clubs and their members, as well as community-minded individuals and organizations. Lions are recognized worldwide for their humanitarian services to the blind and visually impaired. This began when Helen Keller challenged the Lions to become “knights of the blind” in 1925. Lions accepted Keller’s challenge and for more than 90 years, Lions have been recognized throughout the world for their commitment to blindness prevention. In Manitoba, Lions members continue their humanitarian service to help those who suffer with vision disabilities through the Lions Eye Bank and the annual snowmobile fundraising event the Journey for Sight. Both Lions and non-members bring rays of light to many who suffer with corneal blindness.