The Bladen Journal had a visit from two old friends the other day, and an Empty Stocking Fund tradition continued.

Jane and Steve Love brought by their generous donation of $1,000 for the Empty Stocking fund.

The Loves' gift was in memory of Dot and Mac McClure, and like this year's other donations, will go a long way toward making Christmas merrier for some area children and their families.

The Bladen Journal Empty Stocking Fund collects donations from groups and individuals to buy gift certificates for children and families who might not otherwise have any gifts at Christmas. The certificates are good at local merchants.

Recipients are chosen based on need, and must apply through the Dept. of Social Services to be eligible. They need not be receiving Social Service benefits to qualify.

Applications are not accepted at the Bladen Journal.

Donations, however, are welcome at the newspaper office. You may mail your donations (note "Empty Stocking Fund" on your check) to P.O. Box 70, Elizabethtown, 28337, or bring it by our offices at 228-A W. Broad Street during regular business hours.

We love to run photographs of group donations , so others will be inspired to offer a helping hand, too.

Thus far this year, a total of $3,643.62 has been collected for the Empty Stocking Fund. This year's donors thus far are:

ˇ Classic Cruisers Car Club, $1,500;

ˇ Bethel Township Senior Citizens, $25;

ˇ Choice Mortgage, $150;

ˇ Bladen County AARP, $25

ˇ Carvers Creek UMW, $25;

ˇ In memory of Jimmy Green, $50;

ˇ Ted Smith, $20;

ˇ Virginia Fischer, $10;

ˇ Harvey and Kathy Iwerks, $100;

ˇ Peyton and Vera Royal, $25;

ˇ Anonymous, $10

ˇ Anonymous, $10

ˇ Anonymous, $50

ˇ In memory of Dot and Mac McClure, by Jane and Steve Love, $1,000;

ˇ In honor of Rev. Fred and Polly Davis, by Mr. Davis' Sunday School Class, $100;

ˇ Bladen County Employees' Helping Hands, $25.

Leftover funds of $518.62 from last year brings this year's total thus far to $3,643.62.

Deadline for donations is Dec. 17.

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