A group of Beaver Dam residents gathered this weekend to help those in need of help this holiday season.

One of those in need, Yeloa Wellnitz, said this time of year was tough as she didn't know what gifts she could give to her family. This year's holiday is not what she wished for.

"It's hard because I really don't have anything to put under the tree for them," said Wellnitz. "This Christmas is really hard because I can't afford the Christmas dinner, and I can't give my children presents."

The mother of four recently lost her job as a home health care assistant.

"I'm feeling pretty down because I've never been in this situation," said Wellnitz.

But a visit from complete strangers is making her holiday a little brighter.

The Beaver Dam Elks Lodge provided Christmas baskets to nearly 480 families in need in Dodge County.

"I think it's amazing. If it wasn't for them, I don't know what I'd be cooking for Christmas," said Wellnitz.

About 200 volunteers assembled and delivered the boxes filled with Christmas dinner staples.

Elks Christmas Basket organizer Rob Radig said he couldn't imagine a better way to spend his Christmas Eve.

"When I'm done with this, this afternoon, I can say, in a matter of five hours, I helped 500 families, and really that's my Christmas present," said Radig.

His help is something Wellnitz and her family are thankful for.