However, death, divorce and, yes, jail, have a way of changing plans. One St. Augustine mother finds herself facing Christmas with a husband in jail and three small children who have no idea their holiday may be affected. Last year, the Empty Stocking Fund was able to help this family. This year the mother is again asking for help for her children in the form of clothes, toys and a Christmas dinner. The Empty Stocking Fund is not intended to pay off debts, to provide long-term assistance for chronic illness or physical handicaps or to provide luxury gifts.
Priority is given to families with children and to the elderly.
No money is used for administering the fund. Everyone who receives help from the fund must complete an application. No assistance is given without a review of the need by the agency taking the application and the Empty Stocking Fund Committee. These agencies are not affiliated with the Empty Stocking Fund. Although the Empty Stocking Fund is administered by The Record, no applications are available at the office.