The 41st annual effort to bankroll the Empty Stocking Fund’s efforts to help needy local families during the holidays starts today.
The Savannah Morning News, which launched the fund in 1971, works with Salvation Army and the United Way of the Coastal Empire.
“Because of the generous contributions from our readers, the Empty Stocking Fund is able to provide some joy to the less fortunate in our community,” said Michael Traynor, publisher of the Savannah Morning News.
“We are pleased to use our information platforms as a means to raise the funds for a brighter holiday season for so many of our neighbors.”
The Salvation Army and the United Way, using its 211 information and referral call center, team up to screen applicants.
The Salvation Army steers help to those most in need.
Last year, the fund raised $93,483, allowing the group to assist 1,568 families.
In each edition through Christmas, the Morning News will publish stories about qualifying families.
Those accounts will describe their struggles with joblessness, medical expenses, domestic upheaval or other problems.
Names of families and some information that might identify them will be changed to protect their privacy.
As donations arrive, they will be acknowledged daily and can be listed in the name of the donor, a loved one or anonymously.
HOW TO HELP
BY CHECK: Make checks payable to the Empty Stocking Fund and mail them to the Savannah Morning News; P.O. Box 1088; Savannah, GA 31402-1088. Only monetary gifts can be accepted. Or go to savannahnow.com/emptystocking to donate.