Today The Gazette-El Pomar Empty Stocking Fund launches its 29th annual campaign. The fund provides resources for 15 health and human service agencies in the Pikes Peak region that are at the forefront of helping people in crisis.

For the last four years the campaign has raised over $1 million to help those in need. The goal is no less ambitious this year. Every donation counts and 100 percent of the donations go to the local agencies. It is a harsh reality that despite the beauty that surrounds us, many in our community are just barely making ends meet and some are not. They are homeless, without utilities, unemployed or don’t have enough to eat. Some are wondering how they will have the basic necessities while the community as a whole is preparing to celebrate the holiday season.

 The local agencies that work to help these challenged residents rely heavily on your generosity. Just $15 dollars can provide three months of supplemental groceries for seniors in the Tri-Lakes area. The same $15 can supply a backpack of school supplies for two homeless teens assisted by Urban Peak.

We know that our community showed a tremendous spirit of giving when the Waldo Canyon fire destroyed numerous homes and displaced hundreds of residents. We need to come together again to help fill an empty stocking.

You will see the stories during the campaign about the agencies and the many services they provide. The Gazette editorial board particularly likes the fact that many of these agencies provide the stepping stones for their clients to move toward self-sufficiency.

Please donate. No matter how large or small the contributions add up.

Make a secure online donation at FillAnEmptyStocking.org or call 476-1673. Also this year donors can give $10 by texting STOCKING to 50555. — Pula Davis, The Gazette, for the editorial board.

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