The Battlefords Empty Stocking Fund's campaign was launched in tasteful fashion Tuesday.
The campaign held its annual beef on a bun at Third Avenue United Church, which drew a large gathering of local residents interested in helping the less fortunate.
The good food was also a drawing card for many of them as well.
The beef and cole slaw were served by volunteers from Battlefords Grace Community Church and from Third Avenue United Church, as well as from the Food Bank. Super A Foods donated the food for the occasion.
According to Empty Stocking Fund Executive Director Bill Hall, $1,500 was raised from the event this year and 230 meals were sold, which puts it on par for the last two years.
In 2011 there were 231 people (eat in and take out) attending and $1,444 was raised. In 2010, 235 people attended and just under $1,400 was raised. All the proceeds go directly to the Empty Stocking Fund.
"It's a wonderful turnout," said Hall, who said the event kicks off a wide range of activities for the Empty Stocking Fund this fall. The whole goal is to raise money to provide Christmas hampers to those in need this Christmas season.
Among the activities is a carol festival hosted by the ministerial association Dec. 13 at Third Avenue United Church. Other activities will include the placement by the Empty Stocking Fund of their Christmas boots to collect donations in area malls and stores starting Dec. 3.
Also, WPD Ambulance and their EMS Elves plan to collect toys in various stores that will be donated to those in need during the month of December.
Beyond those efforts, Hall acknowledged there are a number of unofficial efforts being organized by people within in the community to help the effort. One of those is Battlefords Publishing's own soup and bun fundraiser held Thursday, with employees contributing $5 each to the cause.
Hall recognized those other efforts that are held to assist the Empty Stocking Fund.
"I'm always amazed by the creativity of people and the generosity they have," said Hall.
