Less fortunate kids will enjoy happy Christmas thanks to generous donors
Charity: Donations to fund are accepted through January
SAINT JOHN – thanks to the generous donations of people across Greater Saint John, the province and elsewhere, hundreds of needy children will wake up Christmas morning to a pile of gifts they might not have otherwise received.
But this year’s empty Stocking Fund campaign is far from over.
“The year-round impact of the empty Stocking Fund is the continued positive impact on the children of our region who will now grow up with a sense of belonging,” said Michele Horncastle, general manager of the Telegraph-Journal, which organizes the 73-year-old campaign.
“The emotional relief for the struggling caregivers at this time of the year is immeasurable as they realize that they are part of something greater than themselves,” she said. “They are part of the community, a community that cares.”
Donations continue to roll in for the empty Stocking Fund. Last year’s final total of $181,000 has already been surpassed by more than $1,000. the total on Wednesday hit $182,475.10.
This year’s telethon reached thousands of households as it was broadcast on CTV Atlantic’s sister station, /A Channel, as well as Rogers TV and News 88.9.
The pledged funds help out low-income families, who apply through area churches. Church members and social workers evaluate a family’s need. Those who qualified received a $100 Wal-Mart gift card for each child.
“The gift cards have been very well received and have given parents facing financial hardship a sense of empowerment,” Horncastle said.
This year, 1,750 children will benefit from the empty Stocking Fund, compared to 1,500 last year.
“We are finding the need is greater,” Horncastle said, which makes it that much more important for people to honour their pledge.
Donations are accepted right through January and are useful to help kick start next year’s fund.
Looking back on the past few weeks, Horncastle said the more than 100 volunteers who help put on the telethon are invaluable.
“Volunteers are such an integral part of the empty Stocking Fund,” she said. “If it weren’t for the generous donation of their time and effort this event would not be possible. We wish to thank everyone at this time for the great success of this year’s fundraiser.”
Less fortunate kids will enjoy happy Christmas thanks to generous donors
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