Hard to believe that it’s time to think about Empty Stockings again, and to be getting the stories ready for the Herald Dispatch. But it’s that time, indeed! I have retired, but have volunteered to do Empty Stockings this year.

Thanksgiving is November 24th, and the paper likes to print the page on Thanksgiving. They need it ahead of time, so I need them by NOVEMBER 14TH. I feel bad when we have had to leave people out because the stories didn’t arrive in time, so let’s aim early.
Remember the drill: the people have to be real, with actual needs that will make their lives better year-round. We are not into getting toys, important as they are, but that’s not the point of Empty Stockings, and the people cannot be kin or friends. They have to be actual clients. We are interested in things like pots and pans, blankets, bus passes, gloves and scarves, maybe a couch. We need for each entry to have an interesting little punch.

Here’s how it goes:

Tony walks to school every day, and has worn holes in his shoes. He wears a children’s size 8. New shoes, and maybe even a scarf, hat, and mittens, and he’ll be set!
Call YOUR NAME, at YOUR AGENCY, with YOUR PHONE NUMBER

Brian and Jeff sleeps at opposite ends of the couch, but it’s not working out well for a good night’s rest. There is room in their family’s apartment for bunk beds.
Do you have an extra set that would help these boys who do try hard in school?
Call YOUR NAME, at YOUR AGENCY, with YOUR PHONE NUMBER.

Please type them up, and send them either to wvsid@aol.com or fax them to I&R’s office, 304-399-3501.

Thank you so much for helping to make this holiday season brighter for people in our region.

With appreciation and a smile,

Sidney Polan

Empty Stockings – stories due Nov. 14th