Operation Santa versus Angel Tree

I know what you’re thinking, it’s only September. I hear you, but these programs are already kicking off and it will be time to start adopting before we know it. Angel Tree is a Salvation Army program that went viral last year, but there is a lesser known program by the United States Postal Service (USPS) that I think more people should know about. Each program has pros and cons so I created a table with the highlights for each program so you can pick the one that’s best for you. Below the image is a list of important dates for each program as well as links to their websites for additional information and instructions.

Operation Santa 2026 Dates

November 2nd - Verification for Adopters Opens

November 16th - Letter Adoption Begins

December 12th - Send Packages to Adoptees by this date to ensure they arrive in time for Christmas

Angel Tree 2026 Dates

Early November - Adoption Begins

Early December - Drop-Off Deadline

Third Week of December - Gifts are Distributed to the Adoptees

Specific dates vary for each Salvation Army location so check your local location’s website to plan out your timeline.

I know budgets are tight, but if you are able to participate, both of these programs are great options. Let me know in the comments below if you’ve done one or both of these programs before and what your experience was like.

Until Next Time,

Happy Gifting