Giving Back

Operation Elf: Alexandria Sheriff’s Office Asking for Donations During Holiday Season

Children with an incarcerated parent select gifts during Operation Elf, an annual giving program to help keep families connected during the holidays. (Photo courtesy Alexandria Sheriff’s Office)

ALEXANDRIA, VA – The Alexandria Sheriff’s Office needs the help of residents. With the holidays near, they are asking for donations to Operation Elf, an annual program designed to provide gifts to the children of inmates.

“Operation Elf not only assists families in need but also helps keep families connected during the holidays,” reads a press release, “encouraging a smoother transition once ex-offenders return to the community.”

Those wishing to participate can donate new toys, books, games, and gift cards.  The gift cards can be given to older children or used by staff to purchase toys.

Education Coordinator Krista Sofonia (left) and Inmate Programs Manager Gloria Wright (right) appreciate donations of new toys, games and books for Operation Elf. (Photo courtesy Alexandria Sheriff’s Office)

During the program, staff makes arrangements for family members to select gifts left at the Sheriff’s Office.

Last year, nearly 200 children received gifts, thanks to the generosity of the community.

Donations are being accepted through Monday, Dec. 14.

To learn more, visit alexandriava.gov/uploadedFiles/Sheriff/info/2020OperationElfFlyer.pdf, or call Gloria Wright at 703-746-5135.

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Kevin Dauray

Kevin is Publisher's Assistant with The Zebra Press. He has been working for Alexandria's "Good News" newspaper since 2019. A graduate of George Mason University, he earned a bachelor's in English with a concentration in Creative Writing. He also studied at the Columbia School of Broadcasting and holds a master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Marymount University. He is an alumnus of T.C. Williams High School. Go Titans!

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