Obras Sociais Irmã Dulce Honored with 2025 Lions International Humanitarian Award

OAK BROOK, Ill., June 16, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Obras Sociais Irmã Dulce (OSID), a nonprofit organization that offers free healthcare for people in need in Brazil, has been named the recipient of the prestigious Lions International Humanitarian Award.

This prestigious award, presented by Lions International each year, honors individuals and organizations demonstrating exemplary dedication to humanitarian causes. OSID joins a distinguished list of past recipients who have significantly impacted global humanitarian efforts through their commitment to serving a world in need.

"Obras Sociais Irmã Dulce exemplifies the true spirit of humanitarianism," said Lions Clubs International President Fabrício Oliveira. "This committed non-profit's unwavering dedication to providing healthcare and social services to those in need aligns perfectly with the mission of Lions International. We are honored to recognize their extraordinary contributions in the field of service."

Founded by Sister Dulce, known as the "Good Angel of Brazil," Obras Sociais Irmã Dulce has provided essential healthcare, social assistance, and education services for decades. OSID operates one of Brazil's largest hospital complexes with free care, serving more than three million people each year. This includes cancer patients, the elderly, individuals with disabilities, at-risk children and teenagers, and many others.

The institution also runs dozens of medical care centers and contributes to health education by training future professionals through residency programs. Its mission follows the legacy of love and service left by Sister Dulce – a nun canonized in 2019 as Brazil's first saint, Saint Dulce of the Poor.

"We are deeply humbled and grateful to receive this prestigious recognition from our fellow service organization, Lions International," said Chair of the OSID Board of Directors José Carvalho. "This award is a tribute to the tireless efforts of our team and the enduring legacy of Sister Dulce, whose vision continues to guide us in our mission to love and serve those most in need."

Carvalho will accept the Lions International Humanitarian Award on behalf of the organization during the Lions International Convention in Orlando, Florida this July. The award includes a US$500,000 grant from Lions Clubs International Foundation to support OSID's ongoing humanitarian initiatives in Brazil.

About Lions International

Lions International represents Lions Clubs International and Lions Clubs International Foundation. Lions take on some of the greatest challenges facing our communities and the world through the service of 1.4 million members in 49,000 clubs and the grant-funding support of our foundation. We improve health and well-being, strengthen communities and support those in need, locally and globally. At Lions International we are serving a world in need.

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SOURCE Lions International