Operation E.L.F. underway in CT

(WTNH) -- Most people think of the State Armory as a place where folks go in a time of crisis, but today the armory is filled to the brim with toys and games, heading to the children of local soldiers serving overseas as part of Operation E.L.F.

They may not look like elves, but the toys being delivered will make the holidays much happier for hundreds of Connecticut kids.

The dolls, trucks, games and bikes are being collected as part of the Connecticut National Guard's 10th annual Operation E.L.F. Program.

On Saturday, they'll be wrapped and ready for 400 small children who have a family member serving overseas with the Connecticut National Guard.

"I think that the biggest reward, the happiest smile you see is the kids because they're overwhelmed by the floor and our whole operation," said Kim Hoffman, Service Members Family Support Center, "it's just massive to them because they're so tiny."

"This is something to give back to the families, to let them know they can celebrate Christmas and they'll be taken care of throughout the entire time," said Colonel John Whitford, CT National Guard.

The giving is being done by individuals and employees of companies like the Crowley Auto Group, who have nothing but praise for the Guard troops serving in harm's way in places like Afghanistan.

"These folks who do such great work for us, if it wasn't for these folks standing up tall and being shot at and the rest of it, we can't do enough for them," said Ken Crowley, Crowley Auto Group.

And although toys were being collected Monday, the Connecticut National Guard reminds that Operation Elf is a year-round operation and items like gift cards are always needed.

"If they want to go to a grocery store a gift card that helps put food on the table is great during the holidays, that department store card helps out a lot too," said Colonel Whitford.

For more information visit the Operation E.L.F Facebook page .