ELIZABETHTOWN — The Bladen Journal’s Empty Stocking Fund took a big leap this week with the delivery of five checks.

Topping the list are a pair of $500 checks — the first from Steve Love of Elizabethtown; the second an anonymous contribution from White Lake.

The Bladen Journal also received a $100 check from the Clarkton Lions Club, a $65 check from the Bethlehem United Methodist Women and a $25 check from Claudia Hester of Clarkton. Those who delivered checks of $25 or more were added to the drawing for two tickets to a Carolina Hurricanes hockey game. In a drawing on Tuesday, the winner of the tickets was Steve Love of Elizabethtown.

The latest contributions raises the total of the Empty Stocking Fund to $3,452. The Bladen Journal’s goal is $7,500.

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

The Bladen Journal will again work with the Bladen County Department of Social Services on the effort. Applications for assistance through the Empty Stocking Fund can be obtained weekdays at the DSS offices from Monday, Nov. 9, through Wednesday, Nov. 25, between the hours of 8:30 a.m. and 5 p.m. For information, call 862-6800.

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.