A Staff Report
Elizabethtown, NC– As the holiday season approaches, the Bladen County Department of Social Services is gearing up for its annual Empty Stocking Fund, an initiative designed to bring joy to children in need in Bladen County. According to Jill Sampson, with the Bladen County Department of Social Services, the Empty Stocking Fund application period for 2023 will run from December 1st to December 8th.
The Empty Stocking Fund plays a crucial role in ensuring that children in Bladen County experience the magic of the holidays, regardless of their family’s financial situation. Applicants are selected based on need and income, with all applications thoroughly verified to ensure that assistance reaches those who need it most.
It’s important to note that if a family or child received assistance from the Empty Stocking Fund in 2022, they are not eligible to receive aid from the program in 2023. This policy is in place to ensure that the fund can reach as many families as possible.
Applications for the Empty Stocking Fund will be available at the Bladen County Department of Social Services, located at 208 East McKay Street in Elizabethtown, NC, starting from December 1st through December 8th. The deadline for returning applications is set at 5:00 p.m. on December 8th, giving families a one-week window to apply for this heartwarming program.
The Empty Stocking Fund is made possible through a collaborative effort between the Bladen Journal, the Bladen County Department of Social Services, and the United Way. This partnership allows the program to provide assistance to local families during the holiday season, making it a community-driven initiative.
As the holiday season approaches, Bladen County residents are encouraged to participate in the Empty Stocking Fund, either by applying if they meet the criteria or by supporting the initiative in any way they can. By working together, the community can ensure that every child in Bladen County has a memorable and joyful holiday season.
About Author
