Santa and his elves brought bellies full of laughter, warm hugs, and big bags of gifts to residents of Padua House in Belle Chasse. 

Padua House is a residential program of Catholic Charities Archdiocese of New Orleans for those with profound disabilities and intellectual challenges.

Escorted by the Plaquemines Parish Sheriff’s deputies, the Santas traveled atop the Drago’s Seafood Restaurant fire truck with sirens blazing. Each Padua resident received a bag full of gifts customized to their special needs. 

The Happy Santas are sponsored by the Louisiana Hospitality Foundation, representing the local hospitality community, where restaurateurs and friends come together each year dressed in full Santa costumes and other holiday flair armed with sacks of gifts for Padua Community Services residents and clients. Prior to their 2019 arrival, the Happy Santas have purchased brand new commercial restaurant-grade equipment to improve the quality of their foodservice operations for residents.

Padua House is a residential program and licensed Intermediate Care Facility for those from the ages of birth to 35 who are medically fragile. Through a partnership with Children’s Hospital and other specialty clinics and hospitals, Padua House ensures that all residents have quality, individualized care based on their specific needs. Happy Santas is committed to providing cheer during the holiday season to the residents and staff.

View the original video and photographs by Chris Granger here.