The Sussex and Lannon Lions Clubs are joining forces with Sussex-Area Outreach Services to remind people that Lions Daze this weekend is more than just a carnival, and it’s never been easier to help out while having fun.

Jennifer Waltz, the director of SOS, says that the food pantry that feeds and clothes hundreds of area families is running low on supplies. One hundred percent of the proceeds from Lions Daze is donated to charity, so at the heart of the carnival lies the spirit of giving.

“I just want to get it out there that the food pantry is beginning to run low on food,” Waltz said. “We are out of peanut butter, and other needed food items are: canned meat, rice sides, cans of fruit and juice. We also need baby formula, diapers and toilet paper.”

The summer months are usually a deadly combination for the pantry, which serves everyone in the Hamilton School District. Between children on summer break no longer receiving lunches in school and the lull in donations, Waltz says SOS could use any help residents are willing to offer.

And that’s where the Lions Club is stepping up. Not only are they organizing and executing Sussex’s largest event this weekend, they are also organizing food drives and fundraisers for SOS.

The Lannon Lions are hosting a brat fry and donation drop-off at Piggly Wiggly on Saturday before and during the Lions Daze Parade. All proceeds from the grill-out will be donated to SOS, along with any food or clothing donations they receive.

In addition, the Sussex Lions are walking in the annual Lions Daze parade, beginning at 10 a.m. on Saturday. It starts on Main Street near Waukesha Avenue and moves down toward Sussex Village Park. They will collect any food or money donations for SOS, adding to the Lannon Lions’ contribution.

It’s never been easier to give while having fun, and both Waltz and the Lions say any donations would be greatly appreciated.