SISTER LAKES — Since the 1970s, the Sister Lakes Lions Club has donated baskets to local families during Christmas time.

The tradition continued this year, as Lions met up on Friday, Dec. 19, to help pack the baskets with toys, food and other necessary items for those in need.

On average, Lions president Rocky Gulliver said the organization gives out about 20 to 30 baskets a year.

Through a partnership with Sister Lakes Elementary, the Lions send home a paper with all students to their parents. The students turn back in their papers, and the Lions compile a list of the families they will help.

“Their cost if they had to buy the basket would be about $75,” Gulliver said.

At the Sister Lakes Lions Club, 66991 95th Ave., Dowagiac, last week, a stack of canned goods and toys was already beginning to take shape.

The canned goods were collected from Sister Lakes Elementary School as a contest.

“We see what they bring, and then we go out and buy the rest,” Gulliver said.

Also in the baskets were a turkey, a gallon of milk, a dozen eggs, a loaf of bread, canned goods and toys.

“We got a ton of toys this year,” Gulliver said. “Whatever we don’t give out, I think we are going to take over to Keeler Fire Department because they are getting Toys for Tots. Or we will find somebody to give them to.”

Martha Paulsen, a Lions member for the past five years, helped collect a large amount of toys from where she lives in Coloma. Another volunteer Dorthy Wright, who helps out with the annual pancake breakfast, Fourth of July fireworks and the food at the Lion’s Triathlon, also collected toy donations from people in Chicago.

The Lions also distributed canisters throughout the area to collect money, which were laid out in bars, gas stations and other businesses. On Friday, they had raised more than $180 dollars.

“Every little bit helps,” Gulliver said.

The Lions also have coats and articles of clothing they collect for the families.

On Saturday, the Lions distributed their Christmas baskets to the families. Whatever was left, they donated to the local food bank or Salvation army.

“The families are always very grateful,” Gulliver said. “They thank us and are pleased.”

As president for the past year, Gulliver has enjoyed his time leading the Lions and emphasized how active members are in the community.

“This year, we gave over $5,400 for different organizations,” he said. “We gave $1,500 to Leader Dogs, and $1,500 we gave to Eversight. They have a camp for blind people. We gave $200 for an organization to help diabetes. We gave another $200 for hearing. We give $500 a year to a high schooler for a scholarship.”