It mattered: Donations to fund also helped children of deployed airmen

We got a bit of news the other day that we wanted to share with all of you who have supported the Empty Stocking Fund.

Some of the toys that you are helping to purchase this year contributed to a surprise at a party held for the children of deployed airmen at Seymour Johnson Air Force Base.

There were enough toys that each child was able to get a special present from Santa Claus, who made it a point to stop by as he finished up his rounds before Christmas.

You can imagine what kind of smiles and looks of wonder were on the faces of those youngsters.

It was a special chance to say thank you to the families who serve along with our airmen at SJAFB -- and you helped make it possible.

We are still trying to pay all the bills for this year's efforts for local children, so if you want to send in a donation, please do. By covering all the costs -- there are no administrative fees by the way, all the money goes to the children -- we are able to make sure we can continue to help hundreds of children each year.

We have told you about the smiles we have seen on the faces of the children and the tears and thanks we have heard from the families.

They are meant for all of you, too.

Published in Editorials on December 22, 2014 11:38 AM