If you have some suggestions please feel free to send them in. elfrobin@robinsfyi.com
 

First you must decide what your resources are.
 

How much money can you afford to spend?
How many friends, family, and co-workers are willing to help?
How much time, do you have?
 

Forth, The Game Plan after all you need to be organized.

Fifth, if things go wrong  (page coming soon)

If your aren't quite up to being a elf, you can always be an assist elf.
 

Not only do elves handle their family needs, many help others in need. Deciding on who you are going to help will depend on your personal preferences and resources.
 

• Kids
• Whole families
• Senior Citizens
• People with a disability
• Disaster Victims
• Animals

 

1. Decide how much you can spend, and how much time you have.
 

2. Before calling any organization, or group. Have a good idea of what you are planning to do, include  which group such as just kids, or senior citizens. If doing a family know how many members there should be, and what geographic area.
 

Kids only -  Most of these are done through structured programs. As a rule you are given a choice of kids that includes one or two items they need/want. You purchase the items, and give them to the Organization to deliver. (see Kids only game plan)
 
Cost is easily controlled - when picking the child, simply find one that has selected items in your price range. You can count on the $25 to $50 range.

Time - Quick and easy, shop and drop off. Normally under 2 hours total time.
 

Whole families - the most common elf project. Can be done many ways, from using a structured program to doing a solo act. (see family game plan)
 
Cost will depend on the size of family and what you wish to do. On the average, figure that a family of four costs about $400.

Total time will average 8 to 10 hours.
 

Senior citizens - These people are a lot of fun to serve, and easy. (see senior game plan)
 
Cost can be very low compared to the other groups. You can get by with $25 or go as high as you wish.

Time can range from an hour up.
 

People with a disability - This offers a wide range of possibilities, depending on who you pick. It will more or less overlap in concepts with the other groups. (see disability game plan)
 
Cost can be from as low as $25 to any amount you wish to spend.

Time can also be very flexible, depending on the persons situation.
 

Disaster victims - This is one of the toughest, and most demanding to do. It will require quick thinking, and most likely be one of the more expensive groups to do. However can be one of the most satisfying groups to serve. (see disaster game plan)
 
Cost for a family of four at least $400.00

Time, you can count on at least several hours of prime holiday time. (December 23 - 26)
 

Animals - Are easy, and cheap. Contact a local shelter offer to help with either some time volunteering or donating needed supplies. Remember just because it's a holiday, doesn't mean someone doesn't have to go in and feed and clean. 

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As well as and the normal places listed below, I have included a page just for people to ask for assistance: This Years Letters to Christmas Elves

American Red Cross (back to locations)

This is for that special group of elves. Not for the rookie. See disaster victims.

Animal Shelters

If humans aren't your cup of tea, there are many shelters that would love to have some help.

Battered Woman's Shelter
 

Many women come with only the clothing on their back and children in arms. Most shelters try to provide something for the women and children, however I've not seen a one that wasn't running on a very limited budget. This is a great place to look if you have a couple of people that want to pool their resources. Or if it's just you, the shelter will know of women who have just gone out on their own, and are still needing assistance.
 

This is an old stand by for elves, I've not met a preacher (or better yet the wife) yet who didn't know the personal life of his congregation.

Many stores will have a Christmas tree with paper stars on it. These are normally handled through an organization that is able to verify the child's needs.

This is for that special group of elves. Not for the rookie. See disaster victims.
 

Even though most banks don't keep a list of their recipients. Trust me the volunteers that have been there very long, will know a few people that really need the help.

Dept. of Human Services (welfare)
 
The trick of the trade here is to get with a caseworker, that knows their clients. A seasoned caseworker will know who really needs the help. Remember there is a wide range of people that get assistance: single mothers, whole families, and many who are on Social Security.
Social Security
 
There are several great resources here, the hardest thing is getting the right person to help you. I would suggest going in person. The telephone system, could drive a preacher to cuss. You may try to reach any of the following:
 
SSA caseworkers - they help the disabled and elderly

SSI caseworkers - they help people who don't receive enough money or don't qualify for regular benefits. These will mostly be people with a disability.

Determination  workers - these are the folks that determine if a person qualifies for services, the people they are deciding on are often the most needy. Many are receiving very little, if any assistance, some people end up homeless while waiting.
 

Just remember to be kind to the folks you speak to, even if they appear to be rude and callous. In more cases than not they are underpaid, over worked, and have people trying to yell at them every day.
State office of Rehabilitation & Division / Commission of Services for the Blind
 
Many people with a disability will be receiving services from one of these services. Ask to speak to a counselor, if they ask which kind (IL help with independent living, VOC assist people with becoming employed) just pick one, either should be able to help you find someone that needs assistance.
 

As we already know there are many people living in these shelters. Occupants while in the shelter they may very limited on space, but there is always room for a toy, and clothing. As with other shelters several people can pool together and do a section of the shelter or even a whole shelter depending on size. If doing it by your self, the caseworker will know of people who have now started to make it on their own, and could use assistance.

Simply call and ask for a caseworker or the Chaplain. Let them know what you wish to do.
 
 
 

This has become a very popular program. In many places either a television or radio station will be handling it. People, including kids, write letters to Santa telling them what they want/need. Each letter is read, and verified by a volunteer. Many programs will sort the letters by size of family. You just sit down read the letters and decide which one you want to handle.
 

Many people have out lived their friends and family. Also many people with a disability live in these homes. Many times because of the required care they need. Trust me when I tell you, these places can kick in the Christmas spirit faster than anything. A little bit of time and a couple of bucks can make all the difference in life.

Most will have what is called a case worker or social worker. Just tell the person what you wish to do, there is always a list of people needing help with the holidays. Some of the organizations are United Cerebral Palsy, Easter Seals, The ARC......

Year around organizations (back to locations)
 

Goodwill, Salvation Army, Rescue Mission are only some of the organizations that assist people. Most will be more than happy to give you a name. However, some may try to get you to donate to their program. United Way can also give you names of organizations in your area.

Confidentiality - When speaking to most agencies or groups the person  you will be speaking to will be limited on their ability to give you any information. The trick around this is to have the person you are speaking to contact the person/family you wish to help. They can get permission to give you the name, address, and phone number. If this is not feasible, you may wish to try a different group, or ask the person/agency you are talking to if they could arrange for the gifts to be delivered.

Kids only
 

Go to any of the recommend sources and pick out your child/children. Most will provide what the child wants or needs. Purchase the item(s), be sure to double check sizes on clothing. If buying any extra toys be sure to check for correct age group. If you've not had to buy toys for a while, find a kid, and ask them for assistance. Most kids love to help.
 

Choose a family that fits your preferences: geographical location, size, and background.
 
Geographical location - Always try to pick a family you are not likely to run into at a later date. They may be across town if you live in a larger city, or in another town if in a rural area. A good elf always works anonymous. If this is not possible try to find someone else to make the personal contacts for you. See safety & dignity.

Size - This will depend on how much you wish to do for the family and your budget.

Background - Elves are human, as with many humans some have preferences. If things such as reasons for needing assistance, race, or religion are of concern to you, pick a family you will be comfortable with. People needing assistance come from a very wide spectrum.
 

Once you have selected the family, you will need to contact them.
 
First remain anonymous!
 
Use only your first name. (Hi, I'm Robin...)

Use the #68 to block caller ID on your touch tone phone

Be careful of the casual conversation. Things like what area of town you live in, what stores you shop in, what school your child attends, what church you attend, and where you work. Thinking ahead will pay off, handle questions in a polite manner, than move the conversation on to something else. (Oh, I love shopping at the Mall, We're just your average Methodist, We live across town, I work as a secretary for a large firm, ...)
 

First contact - phone
 
Call the family let them know you will be assisting them this holiday. Try to set-up a time to meet them in their home. This will help greatly in selecting the items needed. Confirm address and get directions if in a area of town you don't know. Ask for directions from a common public place. (How would I get there from the library?) If you are not comfortable, going to the person's home, you may set-up the meeting in a public place, like McDonalds. By the way if you do pick a restaurant the tab is on you. See safety & dignity
 

Second contact - in person
 

Keep the meeting short and sweet. Total time should never be over 15 or 20 minutes.

Watch your body language, and the way you dress.

Things to ask:
 

If kids are around, ask them what they asked Santa for. Many times what you were told by others is not what the kid had in mind. You may have been told the little girl wants a doll, when the truth is she has a particular one in mind. Also ask about favorite colors and hobbies. If the kid tells you of something you are not familiar with, ask them for more details. See Handling questions kids ask.

Ask adults about:
 

The kids needs, including style and sizes of clothing.

If Christmas tree are not noticed, ask what kind of tree they use. They may have an artificial tree, that has not been set up yet, or they not have a tree. See Christmas tree and decorations.

Christmas dinner, is one of the important things to check. They may have plans to be with another family member's or a friend's home. Also many groups provide Christmas dinner baskets. If no arrangements for dinner have been made, ask about preferences. Some families are ham while others enjoy turkey, some like pumpkin pie while others do apple. This way you know that what is purchased is eaten. Also inquire to any special diets, and treats for the kids.

If it can be done with grace, find out if the have a freezer. This will help determine if the extra food items should be perishable  or not.

 
Set up for the next meeting. If you will be providing a Christmas tree, it will need to be done before Christmas eve. If not the next meeting will be Christmas eve. If the home meets the safety requirements, try to make the delivery after the children have gone to bed. If not, may be the kids could be visiting friends, or family  while you deliver. Which ever be sure you set a exact time.
 
 
Getting things ready
 
Make a list of things you need to purchase. Determine which stores you will need to go to. Also you will need gift wrap, tape, bows, and tags.
 
Toys - at least one major item that was on their list, a couple of extras, and a stocking

Treats - Since you asked when you met them, you will know if the children are allowed sweets. Candy, cookies, and fruit are old standbys.

Something for the adults - At least a token gift. It may be some thing eatable, or even some thing as simple as new slippers.

Needed items for kids - Some kids aren't too excited about getting clothing for Christmas, but they will enjoy it later. Like most of us did as kids.

Christmas Dinner - Do it right, spend the couple of extra dollars for the brand name pie. Don't forget the extras like whipped cream, gravy....

Staples - Many times this is where things are forgotten. By buying extra food, the Christmas spirit lives a little longer. They may enjoy that Christmas dinner, but be thinking of what there will be to eat the next day. If the family has a freezer meat is a wonderful. If not stick to the non perishables: flour, sugar, vegetable oil, shorting, salt, pepper, rice, noodles, canned veggies, canned fruit, pudding, Jell-O, boxed stuffing, soup...

Also try to include a few of the extras that may not always fit into their budget: coffee, tea, instant hot chocolate, marshmallows, cookies, cupcakes, jelly, and a couple of convenience foods or a gift certificate for a local restaurant. After all we all have days we don't feel like cooking.

 

After buying the gifts, remove tags, gift wrap gifts for the adults. Place items for the kids in dark colored bags, or boxes. Put gift wrap, tape, bows, and tags in a separate bag or box.
 
 

Making the delivery
 
If you live where the weather could cause a problem, you may have to alter your original plans. It's better to be early, than miss the a Christmas eve delivery.
 
Call to double check that everything is ok.

Load car with gifts first, and nonperishable foods.

Load refrigerated and frozen items in a separate bag or box. This will make is easier to locate during all unloading.

Once you get there, keep it quick and simple should take no longer than 10 minutes. Drop off everything. Let them know which boxes/bags have perishables, that the kids items are in the dark colored bags, and that you have supplied everything they will need to wrap them.

Wish them a Merry Christmas, and vanish never to be seen or heard from again!
 

Safety & Dignity  (back to family)
 
Safety & Dignity are two of the most important things to keep in mind at all times!

Safety

 
1. Don't go alone, take a friend for family member. Or even contact your local law enforcement office to see if you can get a volunteer to go with you. The officer should be in normal clothing , and no one needs to know what he/she does for a living unless a problem arises. If you are unable to find an appropriate escort, meet in a public place.

2. If an unsafe area of town, make all in person contacts in the day light hours. While people are around.

3. Stay anonymous, this is also a dignity concern too.

4. When calling always remember to block caller ID.
 

Dignity
 
Many families have to sallow some pride to accept help, and the only reason they will accept it, is for the sake of the children. The trick is to help with out injuring the pride.
 
1. Use common sense: watch your body language, and listen to what they have to say.

2. If offered something to drink, or cookies and coffee. Listen carefully to the tone of voice, you may need to accept. For this may fill their need to give back something. Just think of it this way: Even if the housekeeping isn't up to your standards, many restaurant kitchens aren't either.

3. Let them know this isn't a "hand-out" only one person helping another. They can always so the same for someone else when things are better.

4. Include the parents, don't gift wrap the children's items. Supply everything they will need. After all isn't that half the fun?

5. The less contact the better.
 

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Christmas Trees & Decorations (back to family)
 

See if the family has a preference of artificial or real.
 
For an artificial tree, check any of the discount stores, many may already be marking them down.

For a real tree, go to  any of the local charity tree lots. Tell them what you are doing, many will offer a discount, and some will just give you one.
 

Once you know the size of your tree, is time to get the decorations.
 
Check the department stores as well as discount and craft stores. Many will have started reducing prices.

The average tree will need a string or two of twinkle lights and garland. A couple boxes of ornaments. Don't forget the tree topper and skirt. If you are doing a real tree, it will need a "foot" that holds water.

Depending on the ages of the children you may wish to include some craft supplies for them to make their own decorations too. Items like: construction paper, rounded tipped scissors, glue, glitter, crayons, and even an activity book. As a rule I avoid paint.
 

I always try to deliver tree and decorations no later than December 20.
 

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Handling questions kids ask (back to family)

Be ready, it could happen. These are the most common, and how you might respond depending on age. Remember you must be sincere, kids read adults like a book. Also never promise something you may not be able to deliver.

Who are you? - Just one of Santa's helpers.

I thought elves were little and were green clothes. - Well some are, I'm just a big elf, and out grew my elf clothes.

Is Santa going to bring me a ____ for Christmas?
 

If you know for sure you can do it - Well I don't know, but I'll remind him for you.

If you are unsure - I don't know for sure, but if he can't what else might he bring.

If you know you can't - Wow that's a tall order, just in case he can't what else could he bring.

If it is personal like wanting a loved one to return, or for someone ill to get better - Well Santa does better at getting presents for people....using your common sense think for a minute than, wing it.

 
 
 

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Senior Citizens

 
 Depending on the individual situation of the person/people. There are several ways to do this. Some people will have out lived all family and friends, others will have family that lives too far away. Some may have the finances to own extras, while others simply have what ever the government will pay for.

Living in a nursing home.
 

This is one of the least expensive ways to be an elf. As a rule the home provides most of the basic needs, but very seldom the little extras. Here are a few suggestions, use common sense to which ones may be applicable. Be sure to check with the nurse's station about any restrictions such as diet. Also many homes have a problem with items walking off, so keep it inexpensive, or permanently label items with person's name. Alertness will also vary greatly from person to person, and sometimes vary from time to time with the same person. Pick a person/people you will be comfortable with.

Sweets such as candy are almost always a big hit with everyone.

Take them out for lunch, or bring in a nice meal.

If the person is female, many homes have in-house beauty shops. There's nothing like having your hair fixed, and a manicure.

A nice pair of pajamas or night gown and robe with slippers.

A new outfit, many people will have either lost weight, or gained weight since they entered the home. Something  that is new, and fits, makes anyone feel good.

Their favorite bottle of perfume or after shave.

Favorite puzzle books, magazines, or book.

One of my favorites was a gentleman who enjoyed hot tea, and flavored coffees, in the evening. However the home very seldom offered coffee or tea at night for the residents. So I got him a microwave brewer (looks like a plastic tea ball with a handle) and some ground gourmet coffee, along with some specialty teas.

You may also wish to decorate the room, with Christmas decorations and/or other decorative items. Items like pictures and plants are often enjoyed.
 

Living in their own home
 
Met with person/people get to know them a little. Many enjoy the company. While talking to them determine what they will enjoy. Many of the gifts for nursing home residents will also work. However, they may have some other needs.
 
 
 
 

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People with a disability
 

People with a disability are like everyone else. Some don't need any assistance, others could use a little help during the Season. The first thing is to confirm the person/family needs assistance. If you received their name from an agency, the odds are that they do, however if you get the name from an individual, call and check.

Watch out for preconceived ideas, not all people live in subsidized housing or in other special places. Some will live in a nice part of town, and appear to not be in need. Many times they were doing well with their lives than something changed, such as a child being born with a disability, or someone becoming disabled from an accident, or illness. They still have their possessions (nice furniture, a car, entertainment center...), and appear to have  the life style of before. The idea that insurance and government programs cover all the expenses, are simply not true.

Treat as you would any family that didn't have a person with a disability. See family.
 
 

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Disaster Victims
 
Major disaster victims

Most of these people , should be in the system where you can get the needed information to select the person/people you wish to help for any of the normal avenues  as with any other family.

 
Holiday Fire victims

This is one of the toughest and fastest paced assignments an elf can take on. I would only suggest this if you have some experience. It will require a lot of planning, and could take time from your family during the peak holiday time (Dec. 23 - Dec. 26).

Each year like clock work the fire season starts around December , between weather and holiday lights the numbers go up. Some people will have insurance others may not. Either way a holiday fire, is a special situation. If the fire happens after December 23: The odds are that all the organizations that help people will have already given out everything they had,  the insurance contact may be difficult to contact, and these people at least for now may only own what they came out of the home with.

How to set-up to take on fire victims
 

1. Contact your local American Red Cross Chapter, ask to speak with someone in Disaster Services. Ask them if they have a DAT (disaster action team) for your area. If so let them know of what you wish to do. Many DATs respond at the time of the fire, and the volunteers will have the valuable information you will need. Such as how many people, ages, gender, where they will be staying, and their needs. By pre-arranging everything it will run as smooth as possible.

2. If your local Red Cross Chapter does not have a DAT, than contact the local fire department, ask to speak to the Caption. Let him/her know of your plans.

3. No matter which group you work with, you will need to be available on short notice. I would strongly suggest using a pager.

4. Since you don't know when, where, how many, gender, ages, or even if there will be a fire. You must be ready for most anything.

5. Contact local store owners and managers, let them know what you are planning. Ask if they would help by opening the store for you if needed. Don't expect them to give you anything for free, all you want is a chance to buy something. Be sure to get names and phone numbers. Use only if needed, such as with a Christmas Eve or Christmas Day fire.

6. Keep a couple of stuffed animals on hand, just in case. If you are using the Fire department also stock a few personal items: comb, toothbrushes, toothpaste, shave cream, disposable razors, mouth wash, deodorant, and female personal items.
 

Handling the situation
 
1. If you do have a family that needs assistance, remember right now they are homeless, and may be with out any money or credit cards. There  also won't be much room to store items for a while.

2. The odds are that they will be in a motel,  shelter, or with friends/family.

3. Clothing  and personal items, will be the first items needed. Of course the children will be upset, just from the stress of everything happening, and then from having lost all their Christmas items. This is when those stuffed animals come in handy.

4. If they have no support (friends/family to help), and are in the motel setting up a couple of meals at the restaurant will be welcomed.

5. Let the adults know of your plans, then follow through. Small children who are worried about Santa not finding them or their Christmas gifts being gone, may be calmed by simply explaining to them depending on the time of the fire:
 

It's OK, Santa didn't want you gifts to get dirty, so he left them at a special place.
or
It's OK, I think Santa left some extra gifts for you in his special place.
 
6. If you were unable to receive any help from store owners/managers, be there when they open the doors Dec. 26.  Buy the gifts, wrap them, tag them with names and deliver.

7. An extra nice touch, if the family didn't have insurance is gift certificates, to local discount stores, where they can buy needed items.