(Wayland, Mich.) - Today, the Gun Lake Tribe and Gun Lake Casino announced significant donations to underserved tribal communities in West Michigan, and a Canadian First Nation. The Wasauksing First Nation in Parry Sound, Ontario, Canada received a monetary donation from the Tribe and Casino in the amount of $15,000. In addition, West Michigan urban Native Americans received 6,700 items valued at $73,000.

A donation drive was held throughout the month of November at the Casino and Tribe's Government Campus. Donated items sent to urban Native Americans include coats, boots, hats, gloves, toys, non-perishable food, household items, and personal hygiene products.

"During the holiday season we are reminded of those who are less fortunate, and it warms our hearts to organize donation drives for those in need," said Sal Semola, Chief Executive Officer of Gun Lake Casino. "We thank casino guests, casino team members, tribal citizens, and our friends and neighbors here in West Michigan for giving so much to make the holidays better for underprivileged Native Americans in Michigan and Canada."

Each year, during the holidays, the Tribe and Casino holds a donation drive designated to help less fortunate Native communities. Last year donations were sent to Walpole Island First Nation in Ontario, Canada, valued at over $95,000. Those donations included coats, boots, hats, gloves, clothing, toys, non-perishable food, and household items.

"This event has become a big success thanks to the teamwork amongst many wonderful gaming and government staff members, our Tribal Council, our tribal Citizens, and the local community," said Virginia Sprague-Vanderband, Council Member. "Our Citizens see our relatives in need and show how much we value them through our generosity. The Gun Lake Tribe will continue to lay down sema and pray for the health and well-being of all our relatives."

About Gun Lake Casino

Gun Lake Casino is a premier gaming and entertainment destination, is located off Exit 61 on U.S. 131, halfway between Grand Rapids and Kalamazoo. Gun Lake Casino is nearing its $300-million expansion, which features a 252-room luxury hotel, a full-service spa, meeting space, and additional dining options that are set to open in March 2025. The Wawé Oasis, a stunning 32,000-square-foot glass atrium with a year-round tropical climate, will feature a state-of-the-art entertainment center with multiple pools.

This space will also serve as a vibrant nightclub, live concert venue, and versatile banquet facility. The venue is scheduled to open in May 2025.

Currently, the casino offers a variety of thrilling gaming options, including 2,300 state-of-the-art slot machines, over 50 table games, a live poker room, a modern sportsbook, and keno. Gun Lake Casino is comprised of high-quality dining amenities, including Shkodé Chophouse with a contemporary take on American cuisine, CBK (Craft Bar Kitchen) inspired by the brewery culture in Michigan, 131 Sportsbar & Lounge with over 6,500 square feet of meeting space, and over 1,000 square feet of viewing surface for panoramic views of live events, and Harvest Buffet featuring fresh ingredients, cooked to order.

Gun Lake Casino is owned by the Match-E-Be-Nash-She-Wish Band of Pottawatomi. Gun Lake Casino is committed to giving back by seeking opportunities to improve the quality of life in the community it serves. We believe it is a privilege and responsibility to help build and maintain a positive and healthy community. For more information, visit https://gunlakecasino.com.

About Gun Lake Tribe

The Match-E-Be-Nash-She-Wish Band of Pottawatomi (Gun Lake Tribe) has a rich history in West Michigan and a close connection to the land. The Bradley Indian Mission, located near Wayland, is the historic residential and cultural center point of the tribal community. The Tribe's ancestors, and political predecessors, signed treaties with the United States government dating back to 1795. The Tribe was reaffirmed to federal recognition in 1999. For more information about the Tribe visit https://gunlaketribensn.gov/.