The grand finale’ of the 2024 Empty Stocking Fund topped the $239,000 mark on Friday concluding a 10-day on air radio appeal on WCLE/My Mix 104.1 in Cleveland.
The funds go to purchase gifts, toys and clothing for some 1500 children in Cleveland-Bradley County. Wrapped gifts were being distributed Saturday during the annual Empty Stocking Gift Giveaway. Recipients are children chosen through city and county schools who are deemed in need this season. Children in each household from infants to teens are included in the gift giving.
Empty Stocking Fund began on WCLE Radio in 1975 by Mayor Emeritus Tom Rowland, former station owner until elected Mayor in 1991. The drive continued through his leadership and Steve Hartline, new owner of WCLE/ MyMix104.1.
Four years ago Empty Stocking Fund merged with Christmas Party for Children, begun in 1945 by the late Rev. ME Littlefield and Christmas Memories begun in 1995 by Brenda Lawson and family. The three groups uniting enabled the non profit organizations to serve more families and avoid duplication of services according to Mr. Rowland.
Empty Stocking Fund is organized, manned and executed annually through volunteers and donations from the community. “We are local community volunteers, buying gifts locally for children who live in our community,” said Mr. Rowland. “We are proud our dollars stay local and thank all those who donated and volunteered to make it all happen.
“We are indebted to Mr. Hartline and his radio staff who give 10 days a year off on air time to plan and implement this endeavor. This year the radio station dedicated the event in honor of their associate Dewayne Williams, who was unable to take part this year due to an illness. He is a long time on air personality and Empty Stocking supporter.“
This year marked the biggest giving year of the Empty Stocking Fund. Donations continue to be made on-line by going to the Mymix1041.com and clicking on donation.