As the rain fell steadily outside on a gloomy Sunday afternoon, Whitefield Lion Gerry Maldovan waited while Whitefield Lions prepared Thanksgiving meals to be delivered to local residents, according to news release from the Whitefield Lions Club.

“I just brought in some people to eat, and now I’m going to deliver meals and pick up some more people” Maldovan said, as he took a break and warmed up in the Lions den in Coopers Mills, according to the release.

Members of the Whitefield Lions Club had gathered the previous morning to peel and chop vegetables, decorate tables and wrap gifts.

Lion Donna Brooks, organizer of the event for the past 10 years said that she enjoys preparing for the dinner, but it is a lot of hard work.

Each year, the Whitefield Lions prepare and cook a bountiful Thanksgiving meal with all the trimmings and members bake pumpkin and apple pies for dessert. Attendees this year were treated to gifts including candy, plants and hardcover books. Door prizes were given including a handmade afghan.

Bill Gauvin, who has lived in the neighborhood since 1978, said he was there to support the Whitefield Lions and the fellowship of the community.

Twenty-five residents attended the event and 40 meals were delivered to residents of Whitefield, Jefferson, Windsor, China and Alna.

This year, Leo club members from Erskine Academy helped deliver meals.

Lion Carol Jones, coordinates with Brooks by compiling lists of the attendees from local towns and those who require transportation to and from the event as well as the drivers that shuttle guests and deliver meals.

“I like calling people every year, it’s fun to talk to them and then see them at the dinner,” said Jones, according to the release.

“I love hearing the excitement in their voices when they say, ‘Oh it’s that time of year again, I can’t wait.'”

For more information on the Whitefield Lions Club, email whitefieldlionsclub@gmail.com or visit whitefieldlionsclub.com.