Every child deserves happiness and the opportunity to succeed. That's why The Empty Stocking Fund empowers metro Atlanta parents and guardians of children living in poverty by providing them with an opportunity to give their children gifts during the holidays and school supplies to carry them through the year. Through relationships with wholesale distributors, The Empty Stocking Fund purchases brand new items in sufficient quantities to offer a variety of age- and gender-appropriate choices. In December, we invite qualified parents and guardians of children up to 12 years old to visit Santa's Village and select gifts for their children.And over the summer The Empty Stocking Fund's Kids in Need program helps stock Atlanta's classrooms – and backpacks – with school supplies. We build confidence and curiosity into learning with every pencil, flash card and notebook. And in the process, Kids in Need relieves the financial burden on teachers and parents. So everyone can focus on what really matters – learning.