The Kiwanis Club of Lady Lake delivered the holiday spirit early this year through its Christmas in July event Saturday morning at the Lady Lake Baseball Field.
The Christmas in July event was hosted to provide fun and donations to local children who are homeless or in need.
Activities set up around the baseball field for families included a bouncy house, laser tag, and the Tri-County Clowns.
The Lady Lake Police Department and Lake County Fire Rescue also made an appearance to support the event.
Around 11 a.m., families were called inside the recreation center to retrieve backpacks, diapers, free clothes and toiletries.
Club president Deb Tinsley said that the group devoted the past few months to prepare for the charitable event.
The group’s governor Celia Earle came up with the idea of Christmas in July to support Families in Transition, which helps homeless and impoverished children.
“I think this is wonderful,” said Tinsley as she expressed how amazing it felt to physically take part in donating back to the community.
She wanted to thank all the parents who helped cook the food, sponsors such as Insight Credit Union and Families in Transition, DJ Phil who provided entertainment, and all supporters who helped volunteered and contribute.
“We have so many people hurting in the community,” said Kiwanis member Cleve Tinsley. Working through the Lake County Sheriff’s Office, the club received a list of local families who needed support.
Tinsley then stated that the group wants to show the community that they care about them and aims to “make every child’s life better” through this program.
Club treasurer Joann Cline explained the tedious process of gathering all items for the listed families, from purchasing the right size of clothing for every child to filling all 60 backpacks with necessities such as socks.
“I love it,” said Cline as she witnessed the children excited to meet Santa Claus and receive toys and treats.
Because of the abundant amount of clothes and toiletries purchased for this event, Cline said extra items left over would be available at the next Christmas in July event in Fruitland Park.
