Family going through rough stretch

t’s sometimes said that children today, raised on high-tech amusements like video games, don’t appreciate the simple fun and toys from yesterday.

That’s not true though for Liz’ daughter Marcie.

Liz and Marcie (not their real names) are hoping for an old-fashioned Christmas present for the girl this year. What Marcie really wants is a bicycle and Liz is trying to free up enough money to get it for her.

That won’t be easy, however. Liz’ husband doesn’t have a job and she sometimes doesn’t get enough hours at her own workplace to suffice for the family of three.

“I need help with Christmas because I am strained trying to pay bills and pay my rent,” said Liz, who decided to apply with the Salvation Army for holiday help this year. “My husband is not working. He is looking for work and it has been hard for him.”

A resident of the area for 17 years, Liz says Christmas would be “not so good” without any outside help.

As for the bicycle, Marcie may have to wait until times are better to fulfill her wish. But Liz is still hopeful for her daughter this holiday season.

“My daughter would like a bike and I would like a great Christmas,” Liz said.

Through the Empty Stocking Fund, a joint effort of the Salvation Army and the Clovis News Journal, Liz’ family will receive a food basket that includes pancake mix, peanut butter, jelly, canned goods, cereal, beans, rice, sugar and macaroni and cheese.

More than 400 local families are scheduled to receive the baskets through the Empty Stocking Fund this holiday season.

Donations for the Empty Stocking Fund may be dropped off at the CNJ, 521 Pile St., or mailed to the CNJ, P.O. Box 1689, Clovis 88102-1689. Envelopes should be clearly marked to indicate they contain a donation for the Empty Stocking Fund.

All contributions will be forwarded to the Salvation Army.

People who would like to donate food or new Christmas toys or clothing items may do so at the Salvation Army office, 317 E. Second St.

Information is available by calling the office at 762-3801.