The holiday spirit is alive and well in Leelanau County. More than 450 persons from 156 families will have a wonderful Christmas due to the generosity of others.
Eligible shoppers were guided by volunteers at the VFW Hall in Lake Leelanau this week, assisting them in the selection of the perfect present(s) for family members. However, preparations for the big day began weeks ago when Suttons Bay residents Gary and Sharon Husted distributed Toys for Tots boxes throughout the county. From there, Brian McClure, another one of Santa’s helpers, collected Toys for Tots donations which were among the gifts distributed at the VFW event.
But the generosity hasn’t stopped there. More than 25 local nursing home residents are receiving a little holiday cheer from community members who adopted them for the holiday.
And while items on their “wish list,” (such as lip balm and lotion) may seem trivial, just the thought of someone adopting them brings a little light into the darkest days of the winter.
In addition to material contributions, musical groups and choirs have been spreading the joy of the seasons. The gift of song cost performers nothing more than their time spent rehearsing.
County seniors are celebrating this week at their annual Christmas party and will receive gift packages assembled with items donated by the public.
Holiday assistance programs are winding down. But anyone who may have fallen through the cracks are encouraged to contact Leelanau Christian Neighbors at https:// leelanauchristianneighbors.org/.
