EMPTY STOCKING FUND: Help us spread Christmas cheer for a 98th year

You can’t help but feel the holiday spirit at this time of year. Homes are strung with colourful lights, shops sparkle with decorations and shelves are filled with tantalizing possibilities.

For some B.C. families and singles, the season brings even more challenges. Already struggling to make ends meet, they can’t manage the extras that make Christmas magical.

With your help, we can make a difference.

For 98 years, The Province has helped those who need support during the holiday season. We do this by seeking donations to the Empty Stocking Fund. Last year, our readers, with support from the business community, gave $301,709.08 to help families and individuals in need at this time of year. That money meant B.C. families — and people without families — enjoyed a special meal at Christmas, and children throughout the province had at least one gift to open.

Your generosity gives thousands of British Columbians a special holiday season.

Beginning today and continuing until Dec. 23, we will share stories about the community organizations that benefit from Empty Stocking Fund donations and turn that money into food hampers and gifts for children, teenagers and grown-ups. We will tell you about the people who are grateful for help and the efforts of people and local groups that support our annual fundraising project. As well, we will highlight some of the many special events planned in aid of the campaign.

The Province pays all the administrative costs, so 100 per cent of your donation goes to those who need help.

The simplest way to donate is to fill out the form on the facing page or through the link at theprovince.com. This form will run in the paper alongside every Empty Stocking Fund story.

If you can afford to help, thank you. We are so grateful for your support.

Wishing you the best of the holidays,