Empty stocking — Dec. 2

Today’s focus: Family C

Household members: 6

Children: 5 (ages 10, 9 ,8, 7 and 5)

Special circumstance: The mother has bee caring for their niece and nephew since their mother has been out of the picture for a while. This family also babysits to make her income and have lost a few of the families that she has been babysitting because they have moved out of Clovis.

Clothing needs: Boy clothes size, 12-14, two boys wear 10-12 and girl clothes, 6-7 and 6.

Toys list: Boy, 10, has a PS2 and would like a new game, this boy is smart and would also love and educational toy. Boy, 9, likes science and wants a bike, Boy, 8, wants a football or a bike. Girl, 7, would love a Barbie. Girl, 5, would love a Barbie and hair accessories.

The Empty Stocking Fund is a joint effort of the Salvation Army and Freedom New Mexico. Recipients receive gifts and clothes for their children, and around 300 seniors are given meals on Christmas Day.

Who’s helped: Around 300 families who’ve asked the Salvation Army to help make Christmas special.

Donations: Can be dropped off at the PNT, 101 E. First St., or mailed to P.O. Box 848, Portales, NM 88130. Envelopes should be clearly marked “Empty Stocking Fund.” Checks must be payable to “The Salvation Army.”

Contributions will be forwarded to the Salvation Army office, 317 E. Second St., Clovis, or gifts may be purchased for specific children or seniors by choosing an Angel tag off trees located at North Plains Mall and Wal-Mart in Clovis.

If you would like to help “Family C,” call Jim Gallop at the Salvation Army at 762-3801.