An anonymous (and very generous) Odessa businessman, who has supported both the Salvation Army and the Empty Stocking Fund for years, is offering up a holiday miracle for this year’s struggling fundraiser.
He will match the next $50,000 donated dollar for dollar to the Empty Stocking Fund. His generous challenge has encouraged us to extend our deadline for giving until Wednesday (Dec. 21). “Hopefully this will help get the donations needed for this year,” the donor said.
The 28th year of the Empty Stocking Fund was scheduled to end Friday with a $100,000 goal to meet the needs in our community. The goal, however, seemed out of reach with just over $18,000 raised since Thanksgiving.
The Fund helps families who are struggling to make ends meet. Many are single moms and grandmothers trying to raise family in tough economic times. Funds donated to the Empty Stocking stay in Ector County and help local families. All families who receive help have been vetted by the Salvation Army.
The Empty Stocking Fund, an annual fundraising effort by the Odessa American and The Salvation Army, provides a good holiday meal and small gifts under the tree for needy seniors and children. Donations to the Empty Stocking Fund may be mailed or delivered to the Salvation Army Community Center, 810 E. 11th St., or the Odessa American, 700 N. Grant, Suite 800. ZIP codes for both are 79761. Call the Salvation Army at 332-0738.
The Empty Stocking Fund was created by the Odessa American in 1995 and has raised more than $2.1 million. Donate online at tinyurl.com/yud3kc3t
WANT TO HELP?
>> Donations to the Empty Stocking Fund may be mailed or delivered to the Salvation Army Community Center, 810 E. 11th St., or the Odessa American, 700 N. Grant, Suite 800. Both zip codes are 79761.
Donate online at tinyurl.com/yud3kc3t
>> Want to know more? Call 332-0738.
WHAT IS IT?
>> The Empty Stocking Fund was created by the Odessa American in 1995 and has raised more than $2.1 million.
Empty Stocking funds enable the Salvation Army to provide toys and food baskets to needy families in Odessa.
>> This year’s goal is $100,000.
Generous donor offers $50,000 challenge
Empty Stocking Fund deadline is extended until Wednesday
