MONTPELIER — For almost 15 years the student council at Bear Lake High School has worked hard, with help from their classmates, to raise funds and purchase the ingredients for Thanksgiving dinners for those who struggle financially.

This year, they were able to provide 38 full Thanksgiving dinners, thanks to huge donations given during homecoming week and with the help of local churches and LDS wards who identified families who needed a little help.

During homecoming week, several seniors dressed in their best attire — the girls in prom dresses and the boys in tuxedos — and traveled the Valley in a limousine donated by Frank Vilts. They collected almost $1,200, which was used to purchase the food.

For several weeks, Relief Society presidents, LDS bishops, pastors and neighbors looked around and found families who could use a little bit of help with this traditional American feast. Karen Briand from SEICAA (Southeast Idaho Community Action Agency) also referred several of her clients and the Bear Lake High student council put together its list.

Patti Perkins coordinated the workers at Broulims and everything was ready on Nov. 19 for the student council to pick up the groceries. After organizing the 38 dinners, those for the SEICAA families were delivered to the office while the rest was picked up by volunteers who delivered the meals in time for Thanksgiving.

The money left over from these meals will help fund the beginning of the annual Toys for Tots program.  Already, 65 tags have been taken to area stores and banks, as well as large boxes just waiting for the donations. Those wanting to help children receive presents for Christmas are asked to purchase the item on a tag and drop it into a box, with the tag attached, or take it to the high school. 

All donations need to be made by Dec. 10. The student council will spend that week organizing and sorting and all presents will be picked up and delivered on Dec. 14.