State officials kicked off a holiday tradition Thursday and marked the 25th anniversary of Operation E.L.F.

Short for Embracing Lonely Families, the event was started by then Lt. Gov. M. Jodi Rell to support military families who are enduring hardships caused by the deployment of family members.

This includes hosting holiday workshops and providing donations from new toys to gift cards for groceries and gas.

"We can't take the challenge that comes with military service deployment we cant fill the empty chair at the holiday table but we can let those families know they are not facing those challenges alone," says Melody Baber, the state family program director at the Connecticut National Guard.

Over 350 Connecticut Guardsmen are currently deployed, including 110 who are serving overseas. Another 170 are preparing to be deployed around the world.

Unwrapped presents and gift cards can be dropped off at locations in Hartford, Windsor Locks, East Granby, Danbury, Niantic and New London through Dec. 10.

Donations can also be mailed to the Connecticut National Guard Service Member & Family Support Center in Hartford.