110 Connecticut National Guardsmen are currently serving overseas and another 170 are preparing to deploy.  Officials have kicked off the 17th annual Operation ELF, Embracing Lonely Families to support Guard families during deployment. 

Donations of gift cards for grocery and department/home goods stores, pharmacies, and gas stations help support military families throughout the year.  Donations of fuel oil, snow removal, and home maintenance services are also needed, and new, unwrapped toys for young people of all ages are welcome.  In 2017, Operation ELF distributed nearly $10,000 in gift cards to military families in need. 

Donations may be dropped off through December 10th, between 8am and 4pm at the Armed Forces Reserve Center on Wooster Heights Road in Danbury. 

Within ELF is the Adopt-A-Family program, to help meet basic needs in order to have a fulfilling holiday season.  The name of the family is never revealed but a summary of the family’s demographics and wish list are provided.