Lions give Christmas cheer

They may call themselves lions, but members of Port St. Joe's leading fraternal organization have a softer side.

During last week's annual Lions Club Christmas party at Sunset Coastal Grill, members encircled the Christmas tree with piles of gifts for needy county residents.

Donating to the Christmas for the Young and Elderly program has always been part of the Lions Club's annual ritual, but this year, members really stepped up.

"We told them how important it was this year with the economy," said Lions Club president David McGhee, who cited nearly "100 percent" participation in the gift giving.

The gifts, along with two large boxes of donated food, will be distributed to underprivileged tots and seniors throughout the county.

The Christmas for the Young and Elderly program is sponsored by the Gulf County Community Development Corporation, People Helping People and Gulf County Senior Citizens Center.