SANDPOINT — “For it is in giving that we receive.”

Among the many stories told about St. Francis of Assisi is the story of the begger. As the story is often told, the young Francis was selling cloth and velvet in the market on behalf of his father when a man came up to him begging for money. After his business deal had ended, Francis ran after the begger and gave him everything in his pockets. He was mocked and ridiculed by his friends and rebuked by his father when he got home.

Throughout his life, St. Francis was dedicated to living the life of Christ, and carrying out his work as Christ would have done.

His boundless love for others serves as an example to many — and maybe serve as inspiration to help others this Christmas season through the Sandpoint Lions’ Toys for Tots drive.

Today's generous donations totaling $100 come from Clyde and Helena Moslander, from Jude and Tate Thompson, $50; and Robert and Carolyn Inge, $50. Donations now total $1,800.

Like St. Francis, the Sandpoint Lions believe in the power of doing good. It is, after all, the reason why the club's members work so hard every year on their annual Toys for Tots Christmas drive.

Each year, Lions members, local businesses, and the community partner to raise funds as part of the annual Toys for Tots drive.

The club is accepting Toys for Tots applications until Dec. 17. Applications are available on our website and printed copies are available on the door of the Lions Club, 609 S. Ella.

The goal for this year’s Toys for Tots campaign is $50,000 — the same as it has been in past years. The Lions make the most of the money by bargain shopping and with the assistance of generous local businesses.

If you know someone, or need help yourself, the Lions are taking applications for the Toys for Tots program. Applications are available at Bonner Community Food Bank and on the door of the Lions Den.

Donations for Toys for Tots can be dropped off at the front desk at the Bonner County Daily Bee, 310 Church St., from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. You can also drop off donations at Columbia Bank’s Sandpoint branch, 414 Church St., or at the Ponderay branch, 300 Bonner Mall Way; the Ponderay Starbucks and the Ponderay Mountain West Bank.

Donations may be mailed to the Sandpoint Lions Club, Box 414, Sandpoint, ID 83864.

Donations made by check are preferred. Be sure to include a note with your check indicating that it is a Toys for Tots donation. If you wish to make an anonymous donation, please include a note.

If the donation is being made in someone’s name, be sure to also include a note.

Information: Sandpoint Lions Club, 208-263-4118