Lions and Leos serving the community on Christmas Day 2007.

It’s that magical time of year again, when families will celebrate with their unique cultural traditions.

On Cayman Brac, one Christmas tradition centres around the Lions Club’s Santa Claus riding through the island on Christmas Day delivering gifts to the children.

It is also customary for the club members to visit the homes of the elderly and personally deliver gifts to them before Christmas Day.

Hurricane Paloma may have battered and bruised the community, but the Christmas spirit remains alive and well on the Brac.

This year, the Lions and Leos clubs of Cayman Brac will continue the tradition and bring Christmas cheer to children and senior citizens.

According to Brac Lions president Kevin Roberts, club members will be visiting the homes of the elderly across the island from Spot Bay to West End. The Lions will distribute gift packages and spend some time chatting with the older residents, reminding them that they are still cared for and appreciated by the community.

On Christmas Day, Thursday, 25 December, Lions and Leos will be parading through the island riding behind Santa and Mrs Claus.

Children are encouraged to come and collect their gifts; there are also plans this year for refreshments and entertainment at the end of the parade.

Mr Roberts said residents should look out for more details as the date draws closer.

“The distribution of gifts during this time of year is a 23-year-old tradition. Over the years, the event has been well supported,” he said.

Mr Roberts continued, “The wonderful Christmas cheer and joy evident among the children and more so the adults in the community is enough motivation for members to continue the tradition even more so this year.”

“Despite the destructive nature of Hurricane Paloma, and with many still left with feelings of despair, there is still hope for all of us to share. In the spirit of the season and beyond, we will serve,” he said.

Each year, the Lions and Leos clubs’ Christmas programmes are intended to bring joy to the lives of members in the community; this year there is even greater importance on behalf of the club to motivate individuals who have suffered great loss from the disaster. According to the Lions president, the club is fully committed to helping improve the lives of community members.