ESF Share the Joy!
Since the 1950s, the Empty Stocking Fund has been a lifeline for families in the Battlefords, ensuring that those who are struggling can still feel the warmth and joy of the holiday season. We not only help during the holidays but also operate a year-round food bank, serving thousands of individuals every month.Our mission is rooted in values that matter: integrity, charity, compassion,and above all, upholding the dignity of every person we serve.
Imagine living every single day worried if you’ll have enough to feed your children, or choosing between paying rent and buying groceries. These are real stories from the people who come through our doors every day. People like a single mother of three, who is forced to live on child support because working full-time would mean paying more for childcare than she can earn. Or a man receiving dialysis three times a week, scraping by on a social services cheque that barely covers his rent.
These are the people we help. They are not numbers. They are our neighbours, our friends,our community, and with the holiday season fast approaching, the need is growing. On average we serve over 2,100 people every month through our food programs—50% are children, 30% are living with disabilities, and 12% are seniors. In a community of around 19,000 people, that’s 11% of the population—every single month—relying on us. AND we rely on you.
Last year,after tireless effort, and with the help from many, many volunteers, we were able to bring Christmas joy to 405 households—helping nearly 1,200 people injust one week before Christmas with food for the holiday season. Almost half were children who also received a new gift with their food hamper.
Without generous people like you, we cannot keep our doors open; providing hope to families in despair, and ensuring that no child wakes up on Christmas morning without food on the table or a gift under the tree. I am asking you, from the bottom of my heart, to help us "Share the Joy" this holiday season.Your donation to the Empty Stocking Fund Christmas Campaign will make a difference—a real, tangible difference—in the lives of those who need it most.
Thank you for your time, your generosity, and for standing with us as we continue this vital work. Together, we can make this holiday season brighter for everyone and Share the Joy.
