Our Process
1
Apply
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Applications Open 1 Sep 25 - 2 Nov 25
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Must provide detailed explanation of financial hardship (ex. death, injury, lost job, car troubles, etc)
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Include copy of DEERS Statement (screenshot is sufficient) or DEERS DD Form 1172-2
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see steps below to access DEERS ​
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2
Accept
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Soldier will be contacted by Santa’s Castle NLT 14 Nov 25, if accepted
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Shopping date will be scheduled for week of 17 Nov 25 or 1 Dec 25
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Shopping can take 30 minutes - 1 hour depending on number of children
3
Shop
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Soldier and/or Spouse arrive at Santa’s Castle at designated time (children not allowed)
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Will meet Elf Shopper (name/unit is kept confidential)
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Will shop for each child to receive 4-6 gifts, a book, stocking stuffers, family game, and wrapping paper
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Santa's Castle?
Santa’s Castle is a 100% volunteer-run, 501(c)(3) organization that provides toys to the children of Fort Benning Soldiers of all ranks facing financial hardship at Christmas.
Who can apply?
​Must meet all application criteria:
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Be an Active Duty Soldier.
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Be stationed at Fort Benning.
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Be facing financial hardship.
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Have children (ages 0–18) enrolled in DEERS and living at your residence.
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Not utilized Santa's Castle for more than 2 years.
Can veterans or retirees apply?
Unfortunately, at this time we are unable to serve families of veterans or retirees.
What are some examples of financial hardship?
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Emergency travel expenses
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Medical expenses
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Loss of spouse employment
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Vehicle troubles
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Housing challenges
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Unforeseen PCS expenses
Do I need a referral to apply?
No referral is needed.
How can I verify my children's enrollment in DEERS?
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Sign in. (If you do not have a MyAuth login yet, you will need to create one.)
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Go to Manage Health Benefits.
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Click Contact Info.
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Screenshot or take a photo of that screen; be sure to include the list of "Family Members" on the left side of the screen.
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Attach the photo to your application.
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(Optional) Request DD Form 1172-2 from the DEERS office.
Address
7120 Pecom Row Bldg 1710
Fort Benning, GA 31905
Phone
706-573-7052
