Empty Stocking Fund: Ms. R

Today’s focus: “Ms. R”

Household members: 4

Children: 2

Special circumstances: “Ms. R’s” spouse died this year and she is having a hard time making ends meet. Her sister and niece also live with her.

Her holiday hopes: For her children to have a nice Christmas.

Clothing needs: Girls shirt size 24 month. Girls pants size 24 month. Girls shoe size 6. Boys shirt size 14 to 16. Boys pant size 14. Boys shoe size 8.

Toys list: Power Rangers and musical toys.

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 some may receive baskets of food with green beans, stuffing, mashed potatoes and a meat voucher from a local grocery store. Larger families may receive donated turkeys instead of the voucher. The food baskets will also go to seniors on fixed incomes.

Who’s helped: Around 600 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 P.O. Box 848, Portales, NM 88130. Envelopes should be clearly marked “Empty Stocking Fund.”

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

If you would like to help “Ms. R,” call Capt. Tammy Ray at the Salvation Army at 762-3801.