Santa’s Elves has always relied on the community to provide some Christmas joy for every Smyth County child, but, this year, the program is facing significant challenges and is appealing for support.

Program organizers believe it was another victim of Hurricane Helene last year and, this year, they fear economic uncertainty and layoffs will continue to impact donations.

In 2024, despite ongoing community generosity, a letter written by Santa’s Elves Del Baldwin and Ernie Wright, said, “financial contributions to aid unsponsored children dropped by more than $15,000. This shortfall makes it significantly harder to provide for children who remain unsponsored in the coming season.”

While donations dropped, Baldwin, a Department of Social Services Family Services Specialist, told the Board

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