The Clanton Lions Club handed out checks to various charitable organizations and agencies throughout Chilton County on Wednesday.

According to Clanton Lions Club Treasurer Britt Culpepper, the money is raised each year during the Peach Festival’s pageants and Peach Auction.

The club’s 2015 budget totaled over $22,000, which was then spread out among Chilton County charities.

The checks handed out on Wednesday were proceeds from the 2015 events.

According to Culpepper, it is a way to give back through great charitable organizations that have proven to have the best interest of the community in mind.

Preparation for the 2016 Peach Festival is set to begin with orientation for Peach Pageant registration to be held at Senior Connection on Sunday at 1 p.m.

Local agencies that received checks from the Lions Club included Alabama 4-H, Chilton County YMCA, Habitat for Humanity, Donny Martin Scholarship Fund, PEECH, Chilton County Special Olympics and Relay For Life, as well as many other community-driven organizations.

“They’re very gracious and well-deserving of the money,” Culpepper said.

According to Culpepper, earlier this year, the Clanton Lions Club donated a significant amount of money toward the renovations of Chilton County High School’s auditorium.

“Most of the charities supported are to benefit the needs of children,” Culpepper said.