Dec. 18, 2007 Empty Stocking Fund

Today’s focus: Ms. G

Household members: 10

Children: 8

Special circumstances: “Ms. G” will not be able to afford presents this year because her income is used towards bills.

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

Clothing needs: Girls shirt sizes 14, medium and 3T. Girls pants sizes 1, 5 and 3T. Girls shoe sizes 6 1/2, 12 and 9. Boys shirt sizes medium, 4T and 18 months. Boys pant sizes 10, 4T and 18 months. Boys shoe sizes 4 and 10.

Toys list: CD player (for two children), Barbie dolls, trucks, cars, baby doll and an infant music or learning toy.

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 CNJ, 521 Pile St., or mailed to the CNJ, P.O. Box 1689, Clovis, NM 88101. Envelopes should be clearly marked “Empty Stocking Fund.”

Contributions will be forwarded to the Salvation Army office, 317 E. Second St., 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. G,” call Capt. Tammy Ray at the Salvation Army at 762-3801.