About a hundred people gathered at the Burney Lions Club on Tuesday December 11 to celebrate the Club’s annual Special Needs Christmas Party. Forty-three special-needs residents from the Intermountain area were invited to meet Santa and receive presents. Family members and caretakers also attended.
Santa greeting guests at the Christmas party
Every one enjoyed a delicious lunch of baked ham, scalloped potatoes, squash, and cranberry sauce prepared by Lion cooks and served by members of the Lions Auxiliary.
After lunch, Barbara Lane called each special guest forward to meet and greet Santa. Santa gave each person a candy cane and a present that had been purchased specifically for them.
A big smile from Justin
The Burney Lions have been holding this Christmas season event for over 25 years. Jim Lane and his wife Barbara organized the event and spent more than a month selecting and buying presents.
Jim and Barbara Lane with Santa
To raise money for the gifts, the Burney Lions and Burney Lions Auxiliary collected plastic and aluminum cans throughout the year. Funds were also supplemented by cash donations from the community. The project is conducted in coordination with Far Northern Regional Center and Shascade Community Services.
Jim and Barbara Lane said, “This is our pride and joy and we love it.”
Kate Lions gives Santa a hug
Lions Auxiliary President Kathy Lehman said, “A Merry Christmas to all!”
Pit River Country 