The U.S. Postal Service has officially launched this year’s Operation Santa, a long-running holiday program that connects children and families in need with generous volunteers willing to “adopt” their letters to Santa and help make Christmas a little brighter.

Operation Santa allows families to submit letters detailing their holiday wishes—everything from toys and warm clothing to basic household needs. Once the letters are verified and posted online through the USPS program, individuals and groups can choose a letter to adopt and purchase gifts for the child or family that wrote it.

Postal officials say the program has grown nationwide and continues to play a major role in helping families facing challenges during the holiday season. Thousands of letters are adopted every year, and the USPS stresses that the program is completely secure, with all personal information protected.

Residents in Chattooga County and Northwest Georgia can participate by visiting USPSOperationSanta.com, where letters are posted and adopters can sign up. Volunteers purchase items requested in a child’s letter, wrap them, and ship them directly through the Postal Service using assigned labels—ensuring the gifts arrive anonymously, straight from “Santa.”

Families wishing to send letters to Santa through the program must follow USPS guidelines, which include clear return addresses and timely mailing so their wishes can be processed before Christmas.

Local postal employees say participation from Northwest Georgia grows each year, and many hope 2025 will be the strongest season yet.

Operation Santa is open now, with letter adoption running through the holiday season. More information is available at USPSOperationSanta.com.