|
Subscribe!
770-267-8371
|
|
Thursday
September 2, 2010
|
|
|
|
Marketplace
|
|
Sections
|
|
Service Center
|
|
 |
|
ESF applications now being accepted
Published November 18, 2009
While the goal is the same as last year, the help might not stretch as far as it did in years past.
“I think applications are going to be up this year considering the circumstances in our community,” said Alicia Ramfos, chairwoman of the Empty Stocking Fund of Walton County. “Our goal is to make sure we provide that one box of food per household for families in the most need.”
For more than 30 years, the Empty Stocking Fund food drive has provided a box of food to residents for the holiday season. Last year, the 425 boxes of food distributed more than $11,000 worth of food and was a record distribution for the non profit group.
This year, organizers have already met three times in as many months with the realization times are tough and demand is sure to be greater than the supply.
Applications will be accepted over the next three days at different locales in the county. Today, applications will be accepted from 9 to 11 a.m. at the Social Circle United Methodist Church, located at 26 S. Cherokee Road, Social Circle. On Thursday, applications will be accepted from 9 a.m. to noon at the old Boys & Girls Club gym located at 201 W. Spring St., Monroe. Applications will also be accepted from 9 to 11 a.m. at the American Legion Post 233, 4635 Highway 78, Loganville.
Barrels have already been distributed to schools throughout the county to serve as collection points for canned goods to be used for the ESF program. The barrels will be at the schools until Dec. 14.
As is the case with many non profit programs this time of year, volunteers and financial contributions are in high demand. Volunteers are needed for distribution day to help deliver the Christmas boxes beginning at 8 a.m. Dec. 19 from the Monroe National Guard Armory. Individuals and civic groups and organizations are asked to donate their time. For more information, e-mail aramfos@bell
south.net.
A financial goal of $15,000 has been set this year to help purchase food for the 425 food boxes. Those interested can make donations to Empty Stocking Fund, P.O. Box 1094, Monroe, GA 30655.
“We have some reserves, but we don’t want to deplete them,” Ramfos said. “Every dollar helps. And this money does stay in the community. Our board are all volunteers, so we have very minimal costs — 99.9 percent of all funds go back to the community.”
The Empty Stocking Fund of Walton County is a non profit corporation with 501(c)3 status. All donations are tax- exempt.
Share |
Save |
Mail |
Print
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
