Metro East Sun

The United States Postal Service (USPS) is once again bringing joy and holiday cheer to children in need through its heartwarming program, USPS Operation Santa. With over 100 years of history, this unique initiative receives thousands of letters to Santa from children across the country each year.

The process is simple yet impactful. The letters are carefully reviewed, scanned, and shared on the USPS website, ensuring the privacy of the children by removing personal information. Generous individuals from all corners of the United States then step forward to adopt these letters and fulfill the wishes of the children, with shipping provided by the North Pole.

In 2022, the program witnessed an outpouring of support, with over 25,000 letters adopted and more than 18,000 packages sent to children in need. Among the states showing remarkable generosity, Illinois stood out, recording the third-highest number of adoptions with 1,346. Only California and Texas had more adoptions.

"The kindness and generosity displayed by Illinois residents and Americans across the country have brought smiles to the faces of countless children," said a USPS spokesperson. "Through Operation Santa, we aim to create a magical holiday season for those who are less fortunate."

Responding to the evolving times, USPS has embraced the digital era, enabling aspiring Santas from anywhere in the U.S. to browse letters online, select those they wish to respond to, and bring their heartfelt notes or thoughtful gifts to a local post office for delivery. These special packages and letters can even receive a North Pole postmark, adding an extra touch of enchantment.

The roots of this heartwarming program can be traced back to 1912 when Postmaster Frank Hitchcock authorized local postmasters to allow employees and citizens to respond to letters addressed to Santa Claus. Over the years, the program, known as Operation Santa, gained momentum, with mail volume reaching new heights in the 1940s. The USPS then extended an invitation to charitable organizations and corporations to participate, providing written responses and small gifts.

In 2020, Operation Santa went fully digital and nationwide, enabling children from all over the country to participate. To ensure smooth operation, letters must be addressed to Santa's official USPS address: SANTA CLAUS, 123 ELF ROAD, NORTH POLE, 88888. It is essential for letters to include last names and correct return addresses to be eligible for uploading. Additionally, packages can be shipped from any of the 19,000-plus post offices across the nation.

Looking towards the future, the USPS remains committed to expanding the reach of Operation Santa and bringing joy to more children and families in need during the holiday season. The program dates for Operation Santa 2023 have already been announced, with letters needing to be postmarked by December 11 and the website opening for adoption on November 20.

As the holiday season approaches, USPS Operation Santa stands as a testament to the power of generosity and the spirit of giving. Together, individuals and communities across the nation can make a difference and bring smiles to the faces of children who need it the most.

To learn more, click on this link: https://repschmidt.com/2023/11/16/usps-delivers-letters-to-santa/