A Grand Junction club is giving away a "lion's share" of donations to help local non–profits.

At a luncheon Tuesday afternoon, the Lion's Club gave almost $40,000 to Mesa County Public Libraries, Mesa Developmental Services and Mesa County Child Migrant Services.

The library system and M.D.S. say the money will pay for new vans and migrant services says it's trying to renovate its office.

Karl Clemons, president of the Grand Junction Lions Club, says it's been tough on everyone to raise money for charities because of the slumping economy but their members are working hard.

"We will keep up the money. We've got 165 members and we have our contacts out there and even though the economy is hurting and people are hurting a little bit we'll find a way and we'll meet our goal," Clemons told 11 News on Tuesday.

The Lion's Club was able to give away the money today after raising $214,000 at its carnival last year.

The club is already planning for this year's carnival.