The Effingham County Empty Stocking Fund recently started accepting donations for its 27th annual campaign to assist needy community members during the holidays.

Con-tributions are used to fulfill Christmas wishes for children and to purchase food, clothing and medicine for entire families.

Applications for assistance will be taken at the United Way Service Center at 711 Zittrouer Drive in Rincon on Dec. 1-3. The hours are 9 a.m.-noon and 1-4 p.m. each day.

The Department of Family and Children Services will receive all applications. Non-DFACs clients can also receive help.