By Kim Glovas

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) — For the 30th year in a row, the United States Postal Service is kicking off its “Operation Santa,” helping to connect prospective samaritans with needy families.

The main post office, at 3000 Chestnut Street in West Philadelphia, is the focal point of Operation Santa.   Post office spokeswoman Cathy Yarosky that explains that hundred of letters are received from children or families who are writing directly to Santa.

“Many of these letters that we receive are letters from needy families, or children asking for help, for toys because perhaps one or more of their parents are out of work,” she tells KYW Newsradio.

Yarosky says that customers, businesses, and individuals can come into the post office between 12 noon and 5pm and look through the letters, selecting one or two to fulfill.

If you are interested in making a wish come true for a needy family, the program is running now through December 14th.

And, Yarosky adds, remember to bring a photo ID.