Our mission is to provide much needed emotional support to families that have experienced the unexpected loss of a child or a parent with children still at home. This support comes through the magical, anonymous delivery of special gifts during the Christmas season. The goal is to remind surviving family members that they have not been forgotten by their community during an incredibly difficult time in their lives.
The Christmas Commandos was established in 1998 in the basement of the Chief Commandos home, with the hope to anonymously bring comfort and love to grieving families who have lost a child or a parent with family still at home. Serving the Michiana area, as well as a presence in Denver, Colorado and the Indianapolis area, we learn about the families in need through local newspapers, word of mouth and Commando Elves who provide insight into each family including family members hobbies, ages, and needs. With the help of volunteers, the Commandos prepare during the year, shopping, wrapping, planning, and organizing for the delivery night. Many past recipient families have joined the Commandos team to give families the gift they received, paying forward the love of the community.
The Commandos caravan carefully and quietly to each families home leaving large boxes or cozy baskets filled with gifts on the families’ doorstep as well as a very special angel to represent the loss. We cover the yard with garland, ornaments and candy canes in hopes when the family awakes, they will see the decorations, come outside and stumble upon all that awaits them, creating a magical morning.
The first Christmas, we delivered Christmas to 5 families, shopping, wrapping, tagging and delivering with love. Over the years the Commandos team has brought Christmas to over 3,000 families all who are in great need of joy during the holiday season. The Commandos focus on bringing the love and spirit of the season to families who need it most.
Toys, games, bikes, sleds, skates, lessons, camps, etc!
Gift cards, clothes, lessons, tickets to events, etc!
Special interest gifts, gift certificates, sporting tickets
Spa packages, special keepsakes, journals, gift to make her heart sing.
Over the years we have brought many gifts to help families feel the joy of the season. Gifts are customized to the specific family members with the help of those who are close to the family. No gift is too big or small and all are from the heart.
Games, movies, gift certificates for gas, grocery stores, local restaurants, signed Notre Dame footballs and basketballs, cozy blankets, candy, a special ornament and book.
Gifts to bring comfort.