PANAMA CITY — The Empty Stocking Fund is used to support families in need at Christmas, but contributions did not stop on the big day.
Last week, the final batch of donations brought in $1,902.09, led by $330 from Health South employees. That brought 2014’s Empty Stocking grand total to $219,767.12 — well above the $175,000 goal.
“Three years ago we were asking for help right up to New Year’s Day and for the last two years the goal was met by Christmas Day,” said News Herald Editor Mike Cazalas. “That is a blessing made possible by the generosity of the people of this area and it’s remarkable. It is hard to imagine the power and emotion of the thousands of smiles and filled bellies Christmas Day that were a direct result of everyone’s generosity to the Empty Stocking Fund. We sincerely thank each and every participant.”
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The Empty Stocking Fund began more than 30 years ago, when Salvation Army board member Tommy Thomas and The News Herald joined forces to bring holiday cheer to the area’s needy families. The first goal was $20,000. The fund’s target has grown since and the campaign has raised more than $4 million.
Notable donations this year included an anonymous contribution of $35,000 and another anonymous donor whose $5 contributions rose by a penny each day for 15 days. Members of the Sampaguita Association, a local Filipino-American group, collected $100 for the fund while caroling throughout the Christmas season.
“I’m very gratified that the community has risen to the occasion and passed the goal,” said Bill Cramer, owner of Bill Cramer Chevrolet Cadillac Buick GMC. “It’s a real tribute to the generosity of the community.”
Floyd Skinner, chair of the Salvation Army’s local advisory board, said the Empty Stocking Fund is the local Salvation Army’s biggest fundraiser each year.
“These funds are used to buy food and toys for the very needy in our community,” he said.
Any leftover funds, Skinner said, are used to support the community in other ways throughout the year.
Final daily total: $1,902.09
Grand total: $219,767.12
