‘Santa’s Elficers’ program kicks off, needs donations

SOUTH BEND, Ind. (WNDU) - Right now, you can help a local child in need!

For several years, South Bend officers have helped hundreds of children through the Santa’s Elficers Christmas program.

“When officers get to interact, and when some of these kids get to see us in a different light, it definitely has a positive impact,” said Vice President of FOP Lodge # 36 Josh Morgan.

Santa’s Elficers shop, wrap and deliver gifts to children. They also provide meals to their families.

“And then we have volunteers who will wrap every single gift and then we have officers who will go volunteer to go deliver those gifts a day or two before Christmas so that way those kids have something to open on Christmas,” said Morgan.

Morgan said this program touches him a deep way.

“My brothers and my sister, we were part of a program such as this, back when we were children. Ever since then it’s been one of those things just paying it forward. We’ve recently received an email where somebody had assistance, and I believe it was through our program, and now they are actually in a better place, and now they are wanting to pay it forward...It’s kind of nice to see that it’s making a positive impact,” he said.

This year, officers say they want to help at least 500 children, but in order to reach their goal, they need your help.

There are many ways to donate.

You can write a check, or drop off clothing, toys and food at the South Bend Police Department.

“I think this year is going to be a very big need, but we will see what we can do, and we will do what we can to fulfill those needs,” said Morgan.

If you would like to donate, check out the South Bend FOP Lodge #36 and South Bend Police Department Facebook pages for more details.

Families can request an application for the program by emailing SantasElficiers@gmail.com.

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