The Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office and the Okaloosa County School District are once again partnering to bring holiday joy to students through Operation Jingle Bells. This annual initiative supports children and families in need during the holiday season, thanks to the incredible generosity of district employees, local businesses, community organizations, and caring individuals throughout Okaloosa County. While the holidays are a time of celebration for many families, some children face the season without necessities such as clothing, shoes, or gifts. Through Operation Jingle Bells, school guidance counselors and school resource officers work together to identify students who may need additional support and create holiday wish lists.
“Here in Okaloosa County, we know some children face the holidays without the basics, including clothes or shoes, and of course without gifts of any kind,” said Okaloosa County Sheriff Eric Aden. “Operation Jingle Bells is an opportunity for our community to come together and ensure every child feels seen, supported, and cared for during the holiday season.”
Okaloosa County School District Superintendent Marcus Chambers emphasized that partnerships like Operation Jingle Bells demonstrate the powerful impact of a community coming together to support students. “Every student deserves to feel valued, supported, and cared for, especially during the holiday season,” said Superintendent Chambers. “Through Operation Jingle Bells, our community has an opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the lives of students and families. We are incredibly grateful for the generosity and compassion shown by our community and the lasting impact they make for our students.”
Community members are invited to participate by sponsoring a child or making a monetary donation. Donations can be made by visiting: https://ocsostarcharity.com/operation-jingle-bells. For more information about Operation Jingle Bells, please contact catherine.card@okaloosaschools.com or ktingle@sheriff-okaloosa.org.
