When the spirit of Christmas lifts the hearts of some, the accumulative joy can be felt through an entire community.
In Lake Orion, that spirit is ubiquitous. While many individuals and organizations are in the giving mood during the holidays, few can match the generosity and goodwill the Lake Orion Lions Club brings to the season.
For more years than most members can recall, the Lions Club has raised money, donated food and delivered Christmas baskets to senior citizens and less fortunate families during the holidays.
Lions member and Christmas Basket Chairman Dave Tucker said 166 baskets were filled and delivered last year, all through the kindness and generosity of many citizens, businesses and volunteers.
‘It is truly amazing how this process unfolds and how many people are involved,? said Tucker.
Tucker said Lions Club volunteers work with the school district, various businesses and other community service operations to set up donation boxes for non-perishable food items and new gifts for children.
‘All businesses are invited to sponsor a drop box — the more the better,? said Tucker. ‘We’ll manage it for you. We will empty your donation box every four or five days up until December 14th.?
For those unable to sponsor a drop box, there are other ways to assist. On the evening of Wednesday, December 13, the Lions will host a Christmas party at the Knights of Columbus Hall to celebrate the season and raise money for the baskets. Donated items are currently being sought for silent and live auctions to take place that night.
Tucker said auction items can be anything from gift certificates, to free services or goods that run the gamut of interests and tastes.
‘Any donation gift is good,? he said. ‘The more donations we have, the more money we can raise for the baskets.?
There is also a need for volunteers to sort items and pack the gift boxes on Friday, December 15, and to deliver them on Saturday, December 16.
‘If you know a family in need, or a senior citizen who might need some help,? said Tucker, ? please call so we can include them in this undertaking.
‘We want to try and reach every household in our area that might need support and assistance.?
To ensure that those receiving the Christmas baskets have legitimate needs, volunteers make on-site visits in advance to meet with and interview prospective recipients.
‘We want to make sure the baskets get to the right people,? said Tucker. ‘We also want to find out what their greatest needs are. Our focus is on the elderly and families in need.?
Tucker admitted the annual effort involves a great deal of work on the part of many people, but suggests the rewards are well worth the effort.
‘A lot of these people live by themselves,? said Tucker. ‘They’re so thankful to know that someone cares about them. It’s very touching.
‘One of the kids last year asked me if I was Santa Claus,? Tucker recalled. ‘I told him ‘no,? but that I knew Santa quite well.?
To donate a gift, offer money or volunteer to help out, call Tucker at 248-766-4620 or 248-693-2075. Or , contact any Lake Orion Lions Club member.