Lucky Beaver Bar & Burger of Lake Tahoe, in partnership with The Shops at Heavenly Village, held a bi-state, community-led Can Food Drive in support of Christmas Cheer All Year, an effort that is already making an impact. Following urgent reports that the food bank’s shelves were nearly empty, Lucky Beaver and the Heavenly Village teamed up to spearhead a rapid-response effort that has generated more than $10,000 in donations and filled shelves with cases upon cases of canned goods and essential non-perishable items, but the food is already going quickly.
When Christmas Cheer All Year reached out for help, both organizations mobilized immediately, leveraging their community reach, staff, and business partners to bring attention to the crisis and kick-start the collection drive.
“Tahoe takes care of Tahoe,” said Mike Leeper, co-owner of Lucky Beaver Bar & Burger. “When families in our community are struggling, stepping up isn’t optional; it is our responsibility. We’re proud to partner with the Heavenly Village and support Christmas Cheer All Year in making sure no one goes hungry this holiday season.”
Christmas Cheer All Year is now preparing for its annual Christmas Dinner Giveaway on December 17 and 18, serving hundreds of local families. Although early contributions have been significant, the need remains high.
“Lucky Beaver and the Heavenly Village stepped in at the exact moment we needed them,” said Douglas Williams, treasurer for Christmas Cheer All Year. “Our shelves were nearly bare, and their leadership helped rally the community immediately. Their donation and outreach made a real difference, but we still urgently need key holiday items to ensure every family receives a complete Christmas dinner.”
The food bank is seeking 250 of each of the following essential items to complete the Christmas distribution:
- Pies
- Canned yams
- Cranberry sauce
- Stuffing
Lucky Beaver and the Heavenly Village are urging locals, visitors, and business partners to continue supporting the drive over the next several weeks.
Donations may be dropped off at:
Christmas Cheer All Year
1120 Third Street
South Lake Tahoe, Calif.
Digital contributions may also be made using the QR code available on the campaign flyer posted on the Lucky Beaver and Heavenly Village storefronts.
“Every little bit counts, and I want to thank our Village tenants for stepping up,” said Gary Casteel Jr., president and CEO of TSI Investments / The Shops at Heavenly Village. “Whether it’s one can or a full case, every donation goes directly to families right here in our community.”
Lucky Beaver Bar & Burger and the Heavenly Village remain committed to leading community-driven initiatives that uplift and support Lake Tahoe families, especially during the holiday season.