The longtime holiday assistance program known as the LaFayette Area Empty Stocking Fund is continuing its mission to help families in need — with a fresh name to better reflect its purpose. Now called “Empty Stocking’s Christmas Dinner,” the initiative focuses on providing Christmas food assistance to Walker County residents facing hardship.
Applications for the 2025 program will be available starting Wednesday, October 15 at several locations, including:
Department of Family and Children Services (DFCS) in Rock Spring
LaFayette Housing Authority
Walker County Health Department
All Walker County libraries
Completed applications must be returned to any of these locations by Monday, December 1. Only one application per household is required. Residents can also request an application by emailing [email protected].
Once reviewed, approved applicants will receive a letter with pickup instructions for this year’s distribution day: Friday, December 19, from 8:30 a.m. to noon at the Walker County Civic Center Ag Building.
The effort is powered by community volunteers from groups like the LaFayette Rotary Club, Walker County Schools, GFWC LaFayette Woman’s Club, Walker County Fire & EMS, Roper Corporation, and others. Over three days, volunteers unload trucks, organize goods, and prepare hundreds of grocery bags for distribution.
Last year, the program filled 630 grocery bags, helping feed 1,900 residents. This year’s goal is to match or exceed that number — despite rising food costs.
The Empty Stocking Fund is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit, and relies entirely on donations from local individuals, churches, businesses, and civic groups. Premier sponsor Food City and Ringgold Telephone Company (RTC) continue to support the program.
How to Help:
To make a tax-deductible donation, mail checks payable to:
The Empty Stocking Fund
Attn: Julie Carter, ESF Treasurer
P.O. Box 1149
LaFayette, GA 30728
For questions or more information, email [email protected].