FAIRMONT — Santa’s busy little elves are returning to Fairmont, and they need your help. Each year, Fairmont Elementary School hosts an Elf Shop, a place where students in kindergarten through second grade are able to get gently-used or new gifts at no cost for Christmas for immediate family members. The families self-determine whether they want their students participating in this event.

With the potential for more than 300 students to participate, donations of new or gently used items are being sought. In 2019 more than 2,600 gifts were chosen by students for their families. Items in greatest demand are those for teen boys and dads. Donations may be marked for the Elf Shop and dropped off in the elementary school office for social worker Amy Becker. Cash donations may also be dropped off. Cash donations are especially helpful as they allow us to purchase additional gift bags, tissue paper and gifts in categories in which we may be low–like dad-type gifts.

They also are seeking volunteers who can help set up the Elf Shop on Dec. 13 and 14. Help to wrap gifts on Dec. 15, and the morning of Dec. 16. Tear down volunteers will also be needed for the afternoon of Dec. 16 and Dec. 17. A Sign-up Genius will be circulated online for volunteers to choose shifts that work for them.

If you have questions or would like to help with this event, please contact Laura L. Dunker at ldunker3@gmail.com, or via phone at (507) 848-4664. Find them on Facebook at “Fairmont Elementary’s Elf Shop (MN)”