Dear readers:

For almost 100 years, readers of The Atlanta Journal-Constitution have generously donated money to the Empty Stocking Fund to ensure children in our community experience the joy of opening a present on Christmas morning. We are proud to once again be part of this important community service program this year.

For many families, the only gifts they can give their kids are the ones they receive through the Empty Stocking Fund. The last few years have been especially hard on families who are struggling financially, and with our current the economic state, organizers expect the need will be greater than ever this year. The Empty Stocking Fund hopes to purchase gifts for up to 30,000 metro Atlanta children.

Your generosity will help ensure that no child will miss out on that priceless moment of opening a gift on Christmas morning. Think of your contribution like purchasing joy; it’s a direct and meaningful way to make a positive impact in the life of a child right here in your community.

Go to emptystockingfund.org/ajc to make your donation today. Learn more about the program at emptystockingfund.org.

Thank you for helping to support this important Atlanta tradition.

Happy Holidays,

Bala Sundaramoorthy

General Manager

The Atlanta Journal-Constitution