An anonymous couple, “Elf 32A” and “Mrs. Claus,” marked their 18th year of giving cash in Detroit’s Lincoln Park area.
On Monday, they handed out $12,000 in $100 bills at restaurants, schools, bus stops, and even boarded a bus with police help so every passenger received a gift.
Since 2008, they’ve donated about $245,000 from their own pockets.
Recipients included school staff member Danielle Prior, who used $200 to stock an after-school store for students.
The couple describe themselves as “comfortable but not wealthy,” motivated by the joy of giving.
One man, who missed them last year, said their return felt like his “turn had finally arrived.”
Mrs. Claus says such moments embody the spirit that keeps them coming back each holiday season.