Operation Santa gives back to those in need during the holidays

LOS ANGELES (KABC) -- At the post office, Santa, his reindeer and all of his little helpers are hard at work answering hundreds of Christmas list wishes.

It's all part of Operation Santa, a tradition dating back to 1912 where members of the community read letters addressed to the big guy in red and choose the wishes they want to fulfill.

"It's giving back. You have to give back. I lost my job recently so I don't have an income, but I said I was going to do this this year and I'm hopefully going to adopt at least 10 letters," said Russ Donaldson.

The letters are available at the district offices in Los Angeles, Santa Ana and Santa Clarita on Tuesdays and Thursdays between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m.

Many of the letters ask for simple things such as clothes, school supplies or even food. And there is no greater gift for those who are able to answer these simple requests this holiday season.

"All of us walk through this life and at some point need a little boost or a little help ourselves," Donaldson said.