Whenever the Empty Stocking Fund returns each year, initially at least, it’s all about the numbers.

Here are some: Last year, there were 1,302 children who were provided Christmas because of donations made to the Empty Stocking Fund, an impressive number to be sure, but there were 866 who were depending on the fund who could not be served because the money ran out.

That, more than anything, demonstrates the tremendous need in this county.

The fund last year raised $53,580.38 — the second highest total ever, trailing only the amount raised in 2007, $64,320, when all the children who were registered for the fund were served. The Department of Social Services, which administers the fund, actually had money left over from 2007 that provided Christmas for needy children last year.

According to the DSS, 1,156 families registered last week for help from the fund, but as of this writing, the screening process to determine eligibility was continuing, so we can’t report how many children will qualify, except to say that it will be a lot.

But the Empty Stocking Fund isn’t about numbers. It’s about people — little children who would do without presents except for the generosity of other Robesonians who understand that Christmas is about giving, not receiving.

You probably know how this works, but just in case, this reminder. The Robesonian will take donations to the fund, and DSS workers will distribute a $50 voucher for each child to needy families that can be redeemed at the Kmart and Rose’s stores in Lumberton.

If you plan on giving, please do so quickly as that eases the last-minute rush to distribute vouchers by DSS workers who volunteer their time, but also want to spend Christmas with their families. Once again, an anonymous benefactor has agreed to match every gift of at least $25 with a $25 donation, up to $5,000.

The Robesonian will take and publish a picture with any gift that is $500 or more if asked to do so. Just call Editor Donnie Douglas or Managing Editor John Charles Robbins to arrange for that to be done.

Gifts to The Empty Stocking Fund can be made in person at our office at 2175 N. Roberts Ave., Lumberton, or sent through the mail, c/o Empty Stocking Fund, The Robesonian, P.O. Box 1028, Lumberton, N.C. 28359. All the gifts will be listed.

Previous balance ...... $0

1. Robeson Regional Agricultural Fair ... .....$500

2. Gardenettes..............$25

Total ..................$525