- Details
- By Native News Online Staff
Gun Lake Casino announced last week its Toys for Tots fundraising campaign that ran from December 1 - December 16 raised an estimated $47.920 through collection of toys and cash. The success of the Toys for Tots drive will allow hundreds of local children to enjoy presents under their trees this Christmas.
These gifts will be distributed to children in need across Allegan, Ottawa, and Van Buren Counties, bringing joy and making a positive impact in the local community. Gun Lake Casino, which is located halfway between Grand Rapids and Kalamazoo, Michigan, is owned by is owned by the Match-E-Be-Nash-She-Wish Band of Pottawatomi Indians (commonly known as the Gun Lake Tribe).
Make A Donation Here
“Annually, Gun Lake Casino proudly joins forces with the Marine Corps Lakeshore Toys for Tots in an enduring commitment to ensure that less fortunate children receive holiday gifts,” said GLC CEO Sal Semola. “This ongoing partnership reflects GLC's dedication to spreading joy and making a positive impact to the surrounding communities. The collaborative effort between GLC and the Marine Corps Lakeshore Toys for Tots is a testament to the community-focused values upheld by both organizations.”
The festivities kicked off at 131 Sportsbar and Lounge, drawing over 300 people on December 2. Families attending this heartwarming event not only generously donated a toy but also received a delightful package of festive offerings. Each family enjoyed a free professional photo with Santa, indulged in a delicious pancake breakfast, treated themselves to decorated sugar cookies, and savored warm beverages at the hot cocoa bar.
As an extra incentive during the drive, guests were given the chance to contribute by bringing in new unwrapped toys. For every toy donated, guests received a dollar-for-dollar return value in the form of free slot play, up to $100. This innovative initiative not only spurred additional donations but also added an extra layer of excitement for the guests, making the entire event a joyful and rewarding experience for all involved.
“The Lakeshore Toys For Tots organization would like to like to thank the Gun Lake Casino and the Gun Lake Tribe for their generosity this holiday season,” said LCpl Larry Klunder. “With their support the Toys For Tots organization will be able to help hundreds of children in the area around the casino to receive several toys this holiday season. It is our mission to make
sure that no child goes without a toy this holiday season. The Gun Lake Casino is a huge part of our success. Their commitment to helping us grows every year. We are truly blessed to have Gun Lake Casino partner with us to make a huge difference in the community again this year.”
Monetary donations in support of next year’s Toys for Tots campaign are being accepted at GLC throughout the month of December.
More Stories Like This
Native News Weekly (August 25, 2024): D.C. BriefsUS Presidents in Their Own Words Concerning American Indians
Rep. Grijalva Pepper-Sprayed by ICE Agents During Restaurant Raid
Next on Native Bidaské: Preserving Indian Health with A.C. Locklear
Hozhonigo Institute Helps Drive $34.5M in Grant Pipeline for Tribal Communities
Help us defend tribal sovereignty.
At Native News Online, our mission is rooted in telling the stories that strengthen sovereignty and uplift Indigenous voices — not just at year’s end, but every single day.
Because of your generosity last year, we were able to keep our reporters on the ground in tribal communities, at national gatherings and in the halls of Congress — covering the issues that matter most to Indian Country: sovereignty, culture, education, health and economic opportunity.
That support sustained us through a tough year in 2025. Now, as we look to the year ahead, we need your help right now to ensure warrior journalism remains strong — reporting that defends tribal sovereignty, amplifies Native truth, and holds power accountable.
The stakes couldn't be higher. Your support keeps Native voices heard, Native stories told and Native sovereignty defended.
Stand with Warrior Journalism today.
Levi Rickert (Potawatomi), Editor & Publisher
