The Cornell University Elves Program was started in 1989 to benefit needy children in our local communities by providing them with new clothing and gifts at the holidays. School guidance counselors, nurses, or staff identify needy children within their schools and provide an area liaison with children profiles. Area liaisons arrange for sponsors (elves) and give them a child profile to purchase new gifts from a standardized list. Items on the list include socks, underwear, a new outfit, pajamas, a hat, gloves, and a toy. If requested, boots and a winter coat are also purchased. Donations are returned to the area liaison, who takes the items to the school contact. The contact at the school then delivers the gifts to the child’s parents or guardian.
The STAR Committee now serves as the liaison to the Cornell University Elves Program. In mid-November, the STAR Committee surveys the Cornell AgriTech community to identify the number of children that can be sponsored that year. In its first year, the Cornell AgriTech community sponsored 5 children from one family in Geneva, NY. The second year, the number of sponsorships doubled to 10 children from three area families. In just its third year, 18 children from five families in Geneva were sponsored.
In 2017, 16 children were sponsored from families in the Geneva City School District!
In 2016, 23 children were sponsored.
In 2015, 22 children were sponsored.
In 2014, 18 children were sponsored.
In 2013, 10 children were sponsored.
In 2012, 5 children were sponsored.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I find out more information about the Cornell University Elves Program?
Visit the Cornell University Elves Program website http://www.elves.cornell.edu/.
What do I need to do to sponsor a child?
As a child’s sponsor you will receive a completed child profile form and shopping list. You will shop for the items on the list using the profile as a guide. You will return the items to the STAR Representative and they will deliver them to the contact at Geneva City Schools. The contact at the school will deliver the items to the child’s parents.
How much does it cost to sponsor a child?
Essentially sponsoring a single child will cost approximately $100 to $125 to purchase a brand new outfit, new hat and gloves, and a new toy.
Do I have to sponsor a child on my own?
You can always team up with others in your lab group, office, or building to sponsor one child. The STAR Committee can also help organize teams if you need help finding one to join.
I don’t have the time to shop, but can I donate to the program?
Absolutely. Cash or check donations will be accepted. Make checks payable to “The Elves”. (Intentions to make monetary donations to the program need to be received in mid-November when commitments for sponsorships are made.)