Operation Santa Claus

A tradition of support for deployed Canadian Armed Forces members. A little piece of home, no matter how far you are from it.

Operation Santa Claus began as a heartfelt initiative to bring comfort and connection to Canadian Armed Forces members deployed overseas during the holiday season. What started as a small gesture has grown into a cherished tradition, delivering holiday cheer and a sense of home to thousands of CAF members each year.

Led by Canadian Forces Morale and Welfare Services (CFMWS), the program ensures that those serving far from loved ones receive thoughtful gift packages that remind them they are remembered and appreciated.

Operation Santa Claus has grown from a small volunteer initiative into a global symbol of Canadian generosity, reaching thousands of deployed CAF members across more than 25 missions.

Each year, care packages filled with holiday treats, personal items, and heartfelt messages remind our troops they’re appreciated and connected to the community back home.

This tradition reflects the compassion of Canadians, from donors and partners to volunteers, bringing warmth and joy to those serving far from loved ones during the holidays.

As Operation Santa Claus continues to grow and evolve, its impact will undoubtedly remain significant for years to come. The program has become an integral part of the holiday season for many members of the Canadian Armed Forces, and it is a tradition that embodies the deep sense of unity and support that defines the Canadian military community.

Background

Operation Santa Claus began as a heartfelt initiative to bring comfort and connection to Canadian Armed Forces members deployed overseas during the holiday season. What started as a small gesture has grown into a cherished tradition, delivering holiday cheer and a sense of home to thousands of CAF members each year.

Led by Canadian Forces Morale and Welfare Services (CFMWS), the program ensures that those serving far from loved ones receive thoughtful gift packages that remind them they are remembered and appreciated.
A Tradition of Connection and Care

Operation Santa Claus has grown from a small volunteer initiative into a global symbol of Canadian generosity, reaching thousands of deployed CAF members across more than 25 missions.

Each year, care packages filled with holiday treats, personal items, and heartfelt messages remind our troops they’re appreciated and connected to the community back home.

This tradition reflects the compassion of Canadians, from donors and partners to volunteers, bringing warmth and joy to those serving far from loved ones during the holidays.
Looking to the future

As Operation Santa Claus continues to grow and evolve, its impact will undoubtedly remain significant for years to come. The program has become an integral part of the holiday season for many members of the Canadian Armed Forces, and it is a tradition that embodies the deep sense of unity and support that defines the Canadian military community.

With deep gratitude, we extend our appreciation to our amazing partners and donors

Our 2025 partners and donors

Key highlights of Operation Santa Claus in 2024

A heartfelt thank you to our 2024 partners and donors

Operation Santa Claus thrives thanks to the generosity of our partners and donors. Their support made it possible to send nearly 3,000 care packages to deployed CAF members.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Operation Santa Claus?

Operation Santa Claus is a program managed by CFMWS in partnership with Canadian corporate partners. Each year, these partners generously donate large quantities of products, such as seasonal treats and essentials to support deployed Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) members during the holiday season.
Can I donate products or items?
Due to logistical challenges and the need for consistency across thousands of packages, Operation Santa Claus relies solely on corporate product donations. Individual product donations from the public are not accepted at this time.
How can the public get involved?
We are currently exploring several ways to expand public involvement in 2026:
- Make a general cash donation to help purchase bulk items for packages.
- Submit messages of support (written or video) through our social media campaign.
*Check next question for ways to support right now!
How can I support Operation Santa Claus through CFMWS?
- Help spread the word by sharing our social media posts.
- Send handwritten letters or cards to be included in packages. Cards can be mailed to: 4210 Labelle, Ottawa, ON, K1J 1J7 - Attn: Jennifer Mawhinney (PSP – Op Santa Cards)
- Participate in Giant Tiger’s in-store fundraising campaign from October 18 to November 2, 2025. Head to a participating Giant Tiger store in your area and donate $1 or $2 at the check out counters.
Can families and friends send care packages?

Yes! Although this is not an initiative organized through CFMWS, families and friends can drop off packages at a Military Family Resource Centre (MFRC), Military Family Services (MFS) location, or a CAF Post Office. Canada Post offers free holiday postal service for deployed troops. Learn more.
Can I send a digital message of support?

Absolutely. You can submit a message through the Digital Message Board at Write to the Troops. These messages are shared with deployed personnel to boost morale during the holidays.
Who can I contact for more information?
If you have further questions or ideas, feel free to reach out to us at:
- partnershipandeventsupport@cfmws.com or;
- Mawhinney.Jennifer@cfmws.com