Liberty launches annual Christmas Elves Program

Joplin, Missouri – Liberty Utility has launched its annual Christmas Elves program and is seeking participants (affectionately known as Christmas Elves) now through December 12.

Participants can purchase gifts from a wish list for an individual, typically between the ages of 65 to 85, who lives alone with no family or close friends nearby during the holidays. Liberty works with local, non-profit organizations to identify area residents for the program and to help distribute gifts.

To become a Christmas Elf:

• Visit the Liberty office lobby at 602 S. Joplin Ave., in Joplin, Missouri, now through December 12.
• Select a recipient name and fill all or part of their wish list.
• Return the wrapped gifts to the Joplin office by Monday, December 12. The gifts will be delivered to the recipients before Christmas.

Recipients’ wish lists are often simple and include items such as gloves, socks and slippers, blankets, stationery and stamps, pet food and supplies, and non-perishable food items. Elves are asked to limit the size and weight of boxes – large or heavy boxes can be difficult for both volunteers and recipients to handle.

Since 1987, Liberty employees and customers have provided holiday cheer to their elderly neighbors through the Christmas Elves program. Because of their generosity, thousands of gifts and gift cards have been distributed to those in need.