‘Elmo Open To Work’ Merch Wears Support For PBS As It Faces Funding Cuts

Images via Elmo Open to Work

America’s most huggable Muppet is out of a job—at least in satire. Now you can help him and his peers get back up on their feet.

Last month, Sesame Street’s Elmo unexpectedly made the news after a faux LinkedIn post about his apparent termination, a result of federal budget cuts, made its rounds. The very same minds that conjured up the parody have launched the Elmo Open to Work website, where you will be able to walk around in his shoes even more. Despite its wholesome appearance, the message behind the project cuts deeper, warning that public media—including educational programming—could be next on the chopping block. The effort is spearheaded by creatives Mary Adam, George Apfelbach, Kevin McGlone, Lucy Brizzolara, and Christen James from Leo Burnett, with branding and design by Kyle Dunagan Poff.

Image via Elmo Open to Work

For those who wish to dress up in solidarity for Elmo and friends, the team has listed some fun merchandise starring the furry red monster, with 100% of the profits being directed to initiatives that preserve public broadcasting services.

Image via Elmo Open to Work

The nostalgic yet poignant lineup includes an ‘Elmo’s Networking Cap’, an ‘Elmo’s Last Day Shirt’, and an ‘Ooooooh Elmo Likes Keychains’ keychain.

Images via Elmo Open to Work

Image via Elmo Open to Work

It’s worth stressing that Sesame Workshop, the nonprofit that produces Sesame Street, isn’t affiliated with the campaign. The site is simply run by advertising pros leaning into their skills for a cause they care about.

A few additional delightful touches can be found on the website. Visitors will be able to download #OpenToWork LinkedIn profile pictures featuring the faces of their favorite PBS Kids icons to spread the message.

Images via Elmo Open to Work

Résumés imagined to be written by characters like Elmo, Big Bird, The Count, Arthur, Curious George, and Clifford the Big Red Dog are also available.

Image via Elmo Open to Work

Image via Elmo Open to Work

Image via Elmo Open to Work

Whether or not Elmo and crew actually need a new job, the initiative uses some of public television’s most recognizable faces to pose a serious question: What happens to accessible education when the funding runs out?

[via Elmo Open to Work]