ALLEN COUNTY, Kan. — The Allen County Sheriff’s Office is bringing back its annual Adopt-A-Grandparent program for 2026, encouraging residents to spread holiday cheer to elderly neighbors who may have little or no family nearby.
The initiative began in 2020 under Chief Shannon Moore and the Humboldt Police Department and has since expanded into a countywide effort to ensure older residents are remembered during the holiday season.
Community members can participate by nominating an elderly Allen County resident or volunteering to purchase gifts for someone in need. Nominations should include the recipient’s name, address and a list of suggested gifts, such as socks, blankets, puzzle books or other personal items.
Those interested in participating are encouraged to contact the Sheriff’s Office by November 21. Volunteers will be matched with recipients and provided gift suggestions, with participants typically spending between $15 and $25.
Wrapped or bagged gifts must be labeled with the recipient’s name and delivered to the Sheriff’s Office by December 16. Holiday helpers will distribute the gifts anonymously throughout Allen County from December 22-24.
To nominate or adopt a grandparent, residents can contact the Allen County Sheriff’s Office through its Facebook page or email [email protected], using “Grandparent” or “Adopt” in the subject line.
