The kickoff to the Empty Stocking Fund's campaign for 2014 has already seen an influx of money to help those in need.
Executive Director Bill Hall reports that over $1500 was raised from their beef on a bun event last Wednesday. More than 200 meals were sold. The Empty Stocking Fund thanked sponsors B&D Meats for providing the meat, and Tim's Super A in Battleford for the buns and coleslaw.
The organization is now in the process of taking Christmas hamper applications from families. Applications are being accepted from Nov. 24 to Dec. 5, Monday-Friday, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Food Bank (1171 - 101st St.)
They have requested all applicants bring ID for themselves and everyone in their household, as well as proof of residence, income and expenses.
The Empty Stocking Fund also sends word of their other activities this campaign season.
Santa's boots will be going into five locations in North Battleford to collect cash donations for their campaign starting Dec. 1, and it will run until Dec. 20. Locations are: Walmart, Frontier Mall near Dollarama, North Battleford Liquor Store, Sobeys and Co-op Territorial Mall just outside Yellow Submarine. Their "boots" will be staffed by various community groups and churches in the Battlefords, and those interested in volunteering can call Erin at 306-937-5505.
Santa's EMS Elves are again collecting new toys to go with the Christmas hampers, and those will be located at various locations in the Battlefords. The collection will begin Dec. 1 and the Stuff a Bus (ambulance) will happen Wednesday, Dec. 17.
The annual Christmas Carol Festival, hosted by Battlefords Ministerial Association, takes place Tuesday, Dec. 9 at Third Avenue United Church in North Battleford, with a start time of 7 p.m. A cash collection will be taken up to support the Empty Stocking Fund at that time.
Finally, Christmas hampers will be distributed at the Food Bank Sunday Dec. 21.
