Nonprofit News is a monthly Gazette publication featuring stories submitted by nonprofit organizations and individuals in the Pikes Peak region. Submit content and events for consideration to nonprofitnews@gazettedev.gazette.com.

The Gazette-El Pomar Foundation Empty Stocking Fund has played “Santa” to families in the Pikes Peak region since 1984.

The Fund’s initial goal was to help local families in need by filling their Christmas stockings with toys, clothing and other items during the holiday season. Now in its thirty-second year, the Empty Stocking Fund doesn’t actually fill stockings, but provides resources for local health and human service agencies in the Colorado Springs area. Each of these agencies specifically assists individuals and families in times of crisis with the intent of enabling them to achieve self-sufficiency.

During its inaugural year, the Empty Stocking Fund raised more than $40,000 in cash and goods to support 27 local families; the following year, it was able to assist 36 families. A heartfelt Colorado Springs community collaboration, the success of the Empty Stocking Fund is due in part to the partnership between Gazette Charities and the El Pomar and Bruni foundations.

“The Empty Stocking Fund continues to provide over $1 million per year directly to 20 local charities,” said Dan Steever, president and publisher of The Gazette. “The fact that 100-percent of contributions go straight to the service providers means that your donation makes a direct impact in the lives of our neighbors in need.”

Agencies receiving distributions from the Empty Stocking Fund include: American Red Cross, Pikes Peak Chapter, Care & Share Food Bank, CPCD…giving children a head start, Ecumenical Social Ministries, Griffith Centers for Children, Chins Up Youth & Family Services, Lutheran Family Services Rocky Mountain, Marian House, Catholic Charities, Mercy’s Gate, Partners in Housing, Peak Vista Community Health Centers, Reach Pikes Peak, Silver Key Senior Services, TESSA, The Home Front Cares, The Resource Exchange, The Salvation Army of El Paso County, Tri-Lakes Cares, Urban Peak, Westside Cares, and YMCA of the Pikes Peak Region.

Through the generosity of individuals, families, civic organizations, businesses, and foundations in the Pikes Peak region, The Empty Stocking Fund has been able to raise almost $16 million since its launch.

To donate to this year’s campaign, call 719-476-1673, mail a donation to P.O. Box 910942, Denver CO 80921-0942, or make a secure online donation a FillAnEmptyStocking.org.