Operation Santa Claus Frequently Asked Questions

1. How does sponsoring a family work?
   To get started, decide how many children you’d like to sponsor this Christmas. Once you’ve deci
   Each family is assigned an application number—please label all gifts with this number. Gifts must be delivered to Social Services by the coordinated deadline.  The earlier, the better!
2. How much money do I need to spend per child?
   We do not set contribution guidelines for sponsors; there is no set dollar amount to spend per child. There is also no set amount of toys to purchase. We encourage you to spend as much as you reasonably can to assist a family. Please keep in mind the gifts you provide will be the only gifts some children receive.
3. Why are the gifts required to be unwrapped? Will you accept gently used toys?
   For safety reasons all donated toys and gifts must be UNWRAPPED and NEW. Sponsors cannot provide used toys to families.
   Food items such as candy are not allowed.
4. What is a Referral Organization?
   These are organizations that operate and manage their own Christmas assistance program, but partner with the Department of Social Services (DSS) to receive referrals of families in need. Some referral organizations prefer to handle distribution of Christmas gifts independently while others prefer to deliver the gifts to DSS for distribution. We are happy to accommodate either preference.
5. Can I enclose a note for the family I am sponsoring, or could I meet the family?
   No, to preserve and protect the confidentiality of children and their families, we are unable to allow sponsors to enclose notes, cards or meet the family.
6. If I cannot sponsor a family, are there other ways I can help?
   Yes, donations of money and gift cards! Please make checks payable to “County of Currituck”.
7. What is the Food Basket Program?
   This program provides groceries to vulnerable elderly and disabled adults receiving services through the Currituck County Department of Social Services. Non-perishable food items and canned goods are always needed. Additional perishable items such as frozen turkeys and ham can also be donated.
   Please contact Lori Langley 252-232-6039 to coordinate.

To maximize the number of families served, the Currituck County Department of Social Services partners with other community organizations to avoid duplication of sponsorships and contributions. For any other questions, please contact us Riley Koenig at 252-232-6042 or via email at [email protected]