SANDPOINT — There were cheers, turkey hats and plenty of Christmas cheer at this year's annual Turkey Bingo.

Each year, the Sandpoint Lions host two days of bingo — all aimed at kicking off its annual Toys for Tots Christmas drive. This year, hundreds of people turned out for the mid-November event, held this year at Sandpoint High School.

"We had an amazing turnout," Janice Rader, Sandpoint Lions president, said. "The bingo community loved having the extra room at the Sandpoint High School."

As far back as she can remember, Rader said the club's tradition of two days of bingo has kicked off the holiday season — both for the club and the community.

This year's event garnered a large group of people diving into the holiday spirit with several turkey hats and more. It even included a group of Sandpoint High School students, who dressed as older bingo players out for an afternoon of fun.

And that spirit of fun and joy — or helping others while doing so — is one of the reasons that so many people are attracted to the event. 

This year, the event raised $5,468 in its first year at Sandpoint High School. The money brings the total amount raised so far in this year's Toys for Tots drive to $32,748.52.

Each year, the Sandpoint Lions team up with local businesses and the community through its Toys for Tots program to ensure everyone has a merry Christmas.

Funds raised during the annual campaign go to purchase new toys for area children — or gift cards for older youth — who live in the Lake Pend Oreille School District. Every Christmas, the Lions help almost 1,000 area children, from Sandpoint to Clark Fork and all points in between.

Because of the greater need in recent years, the Lions raised the goal for the community Christmas drive to $75,000 — to better reflect the number of people needing help.

The Lions make the most of the money by bargain shopping and with the assistance of generous local businesses. 

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

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. Those interested can also drop off donations at area banks and Mr. Sub, 602 N. Fifth Ave. in Sandpoint.

Donations may be mailed to the Sandpoint Lions Club, Box 414, Sandpoint, ID 83864, or dropped into any one of multiple coin jars located around town. Donations should include a note that it is for Toys for Tots and, if you wish to make an anonymous donation, please mention that in your 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 or online at bit.ly/SandpointLions.