ELIZABETHTOWN — There are only five days left to contribute to the Bladen Journal’s Empty Stocking Fund for 2009, and there is still a ways to go to reach the goal of $7,500.

“This is the home stretch,” said W. Curt Vincent, editor of the Bladen Journal. “And we know there are literally hundreds of children out there who need the Empty Stocking Fund to be successful.”

Several checks were received during the past week that have taken the effort past the halfway mark.

A check was delivered by Phoebe McGavock, human resources manager for Star Telephone, for $880, representing employee contributions and matched by the company; a check for $100 was received from Richard and Tomye Glenn of Elizabethtown; a $100 check was received from Harvey and Kathy Iwerks of White Lake; a $100 check was received in memory of Eugene Cotton;

The latest contributions raises the total of the Empty Stocking Fund to $4,632. The Bladen Journal’s goal is $7,500.

Collections for the Empty Stocking Fund will continue through Dec. 9 at 5 p.m.

How you can help

Each year, the Empty Stocking Fund is supported by contributions from local individuals, families, organizations, churches and businesses.

Donations in the form of cash or check can be dropped off at the Bladen Journal offices at 138 W. Broad St. in Elizabethtown between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. or mailed to the Bladen Journal at P.O. Box 70, Elizabethtown 28337. Checks should be made out to the Bladen Journal Empty Stocking Fund.

Donations will be accepted through Wednesday, Dec. 9, at 5 p.m.

Donations can be made as a gift in the name of an individual, business or organization; they can also be made in memory of a loved one.

Every week, the Bladen Journal will publish the newest list of donors along with the new total for the Empty Stocking Fund.

For more information about making a donation, call the Bladen Journal at 862-4163.