There is a single donation today to The Empty Stocking Fund of $50, and it will be matched by $50 from an anonymous benefactor.
It comes from the Sayers family, and it is offered in honor of all the needy children who depend on the Fund for Christmas presents.
We always debate whether to start the fund before or after Thanksgiving, knowing people are otherwise occupied with cooking the perfect tureky. But today, as the collection period beings in earnest, we have a $2,150 head-start, so to speak.
We should find out early next week how many applicants for the Fund have been approved by the Department of Social Services to receive help, and we look for your help in hoping they all benefit.
Checks can be mailed to Empty Stocking Fund, 2175 Roberts Ave., Lumberton, N.C., 28358., or a donation can be delivered in person. As in the past, we will publish photographs with gifts of $500 or more when that request is made. To give yourself the best chance of that photograph appearing on page 1A, get your donation in early.
The vouchers can be redeemed at Roses, either the Lumberton store or the one in Fairmont. We will announce as soon as possible the number of children deemed eligible to receive vouchers.
Previous total ….. $2,100
5. In honor all of the children who are depending on the Empty Stocking Fund for Christmas, the Sayers family…. $50
New total ………………$2,150