ATLANTA — For nearly a century, the Empty Stocking Fund has battled poverty in Georgia through its Christmas gift program for children in need. But in recent years, the nonprofit has had to wage another kind of fight.
Its southwest Atlanta warehouse has been targeted in a rash of break-ins by what authorities believe to be a serial bandit who has stolen thousands of dollars worth of toys. The capers have threatened the nonprofit’s mission to ensure every child, no matter their economic status, receives a gift that brings them joy during the holiday season.
“We’re not going to let one Grinch steal Christmas, but it is and it has proven very difficult to keep him out of our building,” said Manda Hunt, executive director for the nonprofit.
