STAFF REPORT
The Lucerne Valley Lions Club recently contributed $3,000 to the Little Angels Christian Fund, a local non-profit organization that provides clothing to needy children.
Little Angels was founded nine years ago by Mark James, a Sheriff’s deputy out of the Victorville Station.
While working patrol, James met a poor man with six small children all living in a motel. The man’s brother and sister-in-law had just died in a car accident and he had custody of all their children.
With the help of fellow deputies through San Bernardino County Safety Employees Benefit Association, each child received $200 in clothing, food and presents.
“This was the start of our family tradition,” according to James. “Every year since on Christmas morning we would roll up with our red lights and siren to families in need and deliver food, presents and gift cards.”
Recently a friend of James in county probation said she had 50 children with similar needs. That’s when the Lucerne Valley Lions stepped in to help.
“I have been on my knees praying for a solution. Last night I attended the Lucerne Valley Lions Club board meeting and put on a presentation. I couldn’t believe it, but they gave me enough money to bless about 13 children.”
The generosity displayed by the Lions has proven to be contagious. James met with the Victor Valley Rescue Mission who told him they would contribute food to all the families in need. James is in the process of contacting additional area charities.
“My goal now is to raise enough money to bless 50 children.”
Blessing the children is a two-way street.
“Once again the Lord has humbled me. I feel so blessed right now,” James said on his Facebook page.
To make a donation to Little Angels Christian Fund, call Mark James at 760-985-4751.