Today the many families and children who depend on The Empty Stocking Fund have John Rancke Jr. and his generosity to be grateful for.

John Jr. in recent years has buried too many of his loved ones, and he has made it a holiday tradition to honor their memories by providing Christmas for poor and needy children he does not know. Today we report a $1,500 gift from John that will cross a lot of children off Santa’s list.

John’s gift honors his late wife Pam, his mother Bunkey and his father John Sr. It comes without a challenge, but in previous years John has encouraged others to also make a contribution, joining us in our crusade to help as many children as possible.

Once again we express our heartfelt appreciation of his generosity.

The newspaper office will be closed to the public today so our staff can enjoy the holidays, but we hope to see you on Friday. There is a lot of work to do.

Checks can be mailed to Empty Stocking Fund, 2175 Roberts Ave., Lumberton, N.C., 28358., or a donation can be delivered in person. As in the past, we will publish photographs with gifts of $500 or more when that request is made. To give yourself the best chance of that photograph appearing on page 1A, get your donation in early.

The vouchers can be redeemed at Roses, either the Lumberton store or the one in Fairmont. We will announce as soon as possible the number of children deemed eligible to receive vouchers.

Previous total ….. $600

4. In honor of Pam, Bunkey and John, from John Rancke Jr…. $1,500

New total ………………$2,100