FAIRHOPE, Ala. — Whether it can be attributed to global warming, or just another Alabama summer, it’s extremely hot outside. Ecumenical Ministries Inc., a United Way social service agency, hopes to take some of the heat off families in need, however, by raising $15,000 to help fund programs they depend on.

“Fill Our Stocking” will begin at 9 a.m. on Thursday, July 24, and end at 5 p.m. on Friday, July 25, at Emmy’s Thrift Store, 562 Fairhope Ave. EMI staff and volunteers will be in front of the store, urging motorists to stop and donate money that will be used to provide services for our less fortunate friends and neighbors.

Darlene Smith, EMI community liaison, stated, “With this event, we hope to bring in much needed funding for clients who are experiencing unusual hardships this summer because of the continuing rise in gasoline and food prices, and to assist low income working parents with the cost of summer programs for young children.”

Anyone stopping by and making a donation can have an ornament in their name hung on Emmy’s Christmas tree, as well as find out who will be spending the night in the shop’s holiday theme window. And of course, Christmas in July wouldn’t be complete without holiday music to set the mood. To add to the “cool” experience, donors will also receive a gift certificate for a free snow cone from Taste of New Orleans (next door) while the supply lasts.

Celebrity Santas who have each pledged to raise at least $200 will be on hand during the event. They include Tom Byrne, Riviera Utilities superintendent; John Brandon, a chief financial planner; Paul Davis, First National Bank of Baldwin County vice president; Mike Lyons, owner of Lyons Share Gallery; Joe Lovelady, owner of NFL Building Center; Denise Lores, Fairhope United Methodist Church; and Carol Stickney, EMI board member.

Lori Dubose of WABF will keep her listeners updated about the activities both days.

The EMI office in Foley is taking part in the fund-raiser as well, with a collection point set in front of Reynolds Ace Hardware on Highway 59. Another group of familiar faces will serve as celebrity Santas there.

“We thought we should do something different this year,” said Jennifer Crawford, EMI executive director, referring to a successful 2007 rooftop fund-raiser at the EMI office, located next to the thrift shop.

Crawford pointed out the focus has shifted since last year, from utility to fuel assistance, but she added, “If you’re having a hard time buying gas, you’re going to have trouble paying your other bills.”

EMI is a non-denominational, nonprofit organization that serves low income families, the elderly and disabled in emergency and crisis situations. They provide emergency aid, food pantries, home repair, prescription assistance, Christmas Sharing, Meals on Wheels, community organizing and other services.

Crawford noted young families are particularly vulnerable this time of the year because they are struggling to prepare their children for a new school term. Many are also paying for extra child care services needed during the summer.

“That’s where we are, trying to help as many as we can,” she said. “It’s amazing how many people are helping to make this a successful fund-raiser for us. With the state of the economy right now, it’s not the easiest time to give to others, but we’re lucky to live in a community where many show such generosity and concern for their neighbors, even when it’s difficult.”

For more information about Ecumenical Ministries Inc., call (251) 928-3430, or visit www.baldwinemi.com.