Empty stocking: Dec. 5, 2004

Today’s focus: Bonnie

Household members: 7

Children: 5

Special circumstances: “I am currently working part-time ... and don’t think I can afford presents this year ... and my husband is ill and is trying to get SSI to help him.”

Her holiday hopes: For her kids to have Christmas presents.

Clothing needs: Boy’s pants sizes 7, 3-T and 12-18 months; boy’s shirts sizes 7, 3-T and 12-18 months; girl’s pants size 5; girl’s shirt size 4-T; boy’s shoes sizes 13, 10 1/2, 6 1/2 and 3 1/2; girl’s shoes size 8 1/2

Toys list: Luis, 6, Spiderman; Jonathan, 5, Winnie the Pooh; Alice, 4, Barbie; Ivan, 1, Shreck; Scott, 9 months, Spounge Bob Square Pants.

The Empty Stocking Fund is a joint effort of the Salvation Army and the Clovis News Journal. Recipients receive gifts and clothes for their children, and baskets of food, with green beans, stuffing, mashed potatoes and a meat voucher from a local grocery store. Larger families will receive donated turkeys instead of the voucher. The food baskets will also go to seniors on fixed incomes.

Who’s helped: Around 400 families who’ve asked the Salvation Army to help make Christmas special.

Donations: Can be dropped off at the CNJ, 521 Pile St., or mailed to the CNJ, P.O. Box 1689, Clovis 88102-1689. Envelopes should be clearly marked “Empty Stocking Fund.” Contributions will be forwarded to the Salvation Army. Food, new Christmas toys or clothing may be brought to the Salvation Army office, 317 E. Second St. or gifts may be purchased for specific children by choosing an Angel tag off trees located at North Plains Mall and Wal-Mart.

If you would like to help Bonnie, call Capt. Tammy Ray at the Salvation Army at 762-3801.