Northgate Little League amped up its game this week by providing Christmas gifts to needy children.

The local youth sports organization with the motto “Family through Baseball” provided toys, sporting equipment and gift cards to 35 youngsters currently in the Raymus House.

That’s the Manteca emergency shelter at 520 Union Road servicing displaced women and children for up to three months. During this time of year, various groups have also stepped up to the plate in helping to provide gifts for the holidays.

While the COVID-19 pandemic put a damper on the past season, the Northgate LL family members didn’t let it affect the spirit of giving.

During the weekend, they held Christmas Toy Drive. From that, Northgate LL collected unwrapped toys and other gift ideas along with a variety of gift cards for children ages 9 through 17 at the Raymus House.

“(The donations) were more than I expected,” said Northgate LL board president Chris Luna on Wednesday.

He praised the families of the local Little League youth baseball program for their efforts during the weekend fundraiser.

“This was a great opportunity for our players to get involved in our community and truly make a difference in the lives of the less fortunate children in our city,” Luna said.

Last month, Northgate LL held a turkey drive for families in need during Thanksgiving.

All told, the group collected 43 Thanksgiving turkeys along with other food items and cash for Second Harvest Food Bank to assist those very families.