Gun Lake Casino recently announced holiday giving efforts totaling more than $17,500 by partnering with 10 area food pantries and Toys for Tots. The casino collected toy donations from guests and team members Nov. 16 through Dec. 16.

Toys for Tots representatives collected the donated toys, with a total of 751 toys and 12 bicycles donated, according to a news release from the casino.

“Gun Lake Casino recognizes that the importance of giving back to our communities,” said Sal Semola, president and chief operating officer for Gun Lake Casino. “We are proud to be able to implement multiple giving efforts that have a positive impact and leave a lasting impression through this holiday season.”

In addition to the toy drive, the casino donated $15,000 to area food pantries. Representatives from the food pantries gathered for a free lunch at Gun Lake Casino’s Harvest Buffet and were presented checks for $1,500 each. Included in the luncheon were Allegan County Food Pantry, Christian Neighbors Douglas, Christian Neighbors SE, Community Action House, Good Hands Plainwell, Hopkins Community Food Pantry, Kalamazoo Loaves and Fishes, Martin Area Resource Center, Project Hope, and Wayland Area Christian Neighbors.

It was the sixth year that Gun Lake Casino had hosted a food pantry luncheon. Through the annual event, the casino has donated $82,000.

Story Originally appeared on mLive