The Empty Stocking Fund held its annual kickoff Beef on a Bun event at Third Avenue United Church to kick off its 2019 campaign.
City Councillor Kent Lindgren was one of those on hand to enjoy lunch. Photos by John Cairns
Empty Stocking Fund aims to raise $100,000
By John Cairns
Staff Reporter
The 2019 campaign is under way for the Battlefords Empty Stocking Fund.
The annual campaign to provide Christmas hampers to the less fortunate began with the Beef on a Bun event at Third Avenue United Church in North Battleford on Nov. 20 during the noon hour.
The motto of the campaign this year is Share the Joy, with a financial goal to raise $100,000. Last year, the Empty Stocking Fund helped more than 1,600 people in the Battlefords and toys were matched with 755 children.
Those needing a Christmas hamper should apply at the Battlefords District Food and Resource Centre, between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. any day between Nov. 25 and Dec. 6. Those applying need to bring proof of income, proof of expenses and identification. For more information call 306-937-5505.
There are a number of key dates on the calendar for the campaign as follows:
Nov. 22: The Toque Toss at the North Stars Game, with the toques going to the Share the Warmth campaign.
Nov. 23: Food Drive, North Stars game, for the Empty Stocking Fund
Nov. 25-Dec. 6: Empty Stocking Fund applications.
Nov. 30: Share the Warmth, Coats for Kids Clinic at the Battlefords District Food and Resource Centre between 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. Anyone wishing to donate clean gently used winter jackets can drop them off that day.
Dec. 2-21: Empty Stockings go out with donation boots set up at five locations around town. Volunteers are needed.
Dec. 2-19: Loraas Business Food Drive.
Dec. 2-18: the EMS Elves Toy Drive.
Dec. 6-8: Walk Through Bethlehem.
Also in December, the Rainbow Theatre Poster Sale for Empty Stocking Fund, details to be announced.
Dec. 10: Ministerial Carol Festival.
Dec. 14: Teddy Bear Toss night at the North Stars Game.
Dec. 16: Boxes are prepared for Christmas food hampers at Central School.
Dec. 17 and 18: EMBM students come to pack the hampers.
Dec 19 and 20: Santa’s toy workshop in full swing.
Dec. 22: ESF Christmas Hamper Distribution.
The food bank will be closed Dec. 23 and will reopen on Jan. 2, 2020.
