Since 2018, Collin Arthrell has been sending care packages and stockings to sailors worldwide. At the age of eight, Collin established Collin’s Elves, referring to his supporters across all 50 states as his “elves.” His inspiration stemmed from his brothers joining the Navy. Starting his mission helped Collin feel connected and provided a way to give back.

During Halloween, he sends candy and snacks to troops at the front lines. Throughout the year, he prepares hygiene and snack bags for homeless veterans in his hometown of Pittsburgh. In the fall of 2019, Collin began sending stockings to deployed sailors, including essential items like hygiene products, energy packets, and snacks. The goal was to boost holiday spirits for deployed service members, which was well-received and appreciated.

Between the years 23-25 over 20,000stockings were either sent overseas, or delivered to Norfolk Virginia. Each year Collin sets new goals, and this year he aims to serve anyone on the Norfolk Naval base.

Collin is very grateful for your donation and please keep an eye out on our Facebook page and our website for upcoming events and ways to get involved.

The team has witnessed firsthand the impact of their efforts on service members' spirits and aims to set new milestones and spread holiday cheer to those often overlooked. Since 2023, Collin’s Elves has operated as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit charity, recognized and awarded the Candid seal of Platinum transparency.

Stockings for Sailors 2026