Photo gallery: Homeless children gifted toys on Christmas Day

A dozen or so wide-eyed children got to speak with Santa as part of Chad D's Toy Drive.

Photo by Alexandra Olivia

An excited young resident is all smiles amongst the pile of toys.

DALLAS — Volunteer elves from Chad D's 12th Annual Toy Drive delivered toys to children at Dallas Life Foundation on Christmas Day. The small group, who assembled at Libertine Bar on Lower Greenville early in the evening, loaded up vehicles with several hundred toys collected at the toy drive and free concert last week that featured performances by some of the area's best-loved musicians.

A steady mix of rain and drizzle coated the streets as the caravan drove to the downtown shelter, where the group was immediately whisked into the chapel amid word that the facility was on lock-down following a security incident. Unfazed by the news, the experienced group sprang into action, and within minutes, toys were laid out next to the Christmas tree. Many have been involved with the benefit since its inception 12 years ago, said founder Chad Davenport.

According to shelter staff, approximately 30 children and their families are currently residents, although many were enjoying time away with family or friends. After the security incident was resolved, a dozen or so wide-eyed children streamed in to have a chat with Santa and to make their excited selections. For the second year in a row, the jolly man of the hour was played by veteran volunteer John Pedigo of The O's, the band that headlined the benefit last week.

After the last of Santa's goodies were claimed, the caravan headed back to Libertine to share a little Christmas cheer and to reflect on the magic of a Christmas night spent with friends old and new.