I’ve been in real estate in Ellis County for a while now, and here’s what I’ve learned:
-The best communities aren’t built by developers or city planners or even real estate agents like me.
-They’re built by people who show up for each other.
-That’s why we’re doing something different this year.
What We’re Building
On December 11 from 5:00pm-7:00pm Centre Living Homes is hosting something we’re calling Santa’s Construction Zone.
Here’s what’s happening:
- Santa’s setting up shop
- Santa will be there for FREE family photos, bring your phone or camera!
- We’re serving hot cocoa and cookies
- You can tour some beautiful new homes
- And most importantly, we’re collecting toys for Brave Like Ellie, a local organization that serves kids right here in our community
- Every toy donation earns an entry into our raffle, multiple toys will get multiple entries. BIG prizes from local businesses will be raffled off!
Every person who brings a toy becomes an official “Toymaker” in Santa’s Construction Zone.
Because that’s what you’re doing, you’re not just donating a toy, you’re building Christmas magic for a child who needs it.
Event Details
When: 12/11/25
Time: 5:00pm-7:00pm
Where: Centre Living Homes, 93 Hunter Pass Waxahachie, TX
Cost: FREE – Just bring an unwrapped toy
RSVP Required: Nope. Just show up.
What to Bring:
One new, unwrapped toy. Any age range, but toys for older kids are most needed. Board games, art supplies, sports equipment, books, dolls, action figures, puzzles, whatever you want to contribute.
What You Get:
- Photos and meet and greet with Santa (completely free)
- Hot cocoa and cookies
- Entry into our raffle
- Optional home tours
- The satisfaction of knowing you made a kid’s Christmas better
Why Centre Living Homes?
I partnered with Centre Living for this event because they get it.
The best builders don’t just construct houses. They build communities where neighbors actually know each other. Where people show up for each other. Where kids play together in the streets and parents grab coffee on porches.
That’s what Centre Living is building in our area. And that’s the kind of community I want to be part of, and help others find.
This event? It’s proof that we’re serious about that vision.
Why Brave Like Ellie?
Brave Like Ellie is a local nonprofit organization based right here in Waxahachie that serves families affected by pediatric cancer at any stage of their journey. They provide “Brave Boxes”, customized care packages filled with toys, activities, and hand-selected items designed to encourage bravery, inspire joy, and provide comfort to children fighting cancer and their families. What makes Brave Like Ellie special is that they understand a cancer diagnosis affects the entire family, not just the child, so their Brave Boxes support moms, dads, and siblings too. Founded by parents who watched their daughter Ellie fight cancer, this organization knows firsthand what these families need because they’ve lived it themselves.
Every toy donated at Santa’s Construction Zone goes directly into Brave Boxes for local children. Not kids in some faraway place. Not a national charity where you wonder where your donation actually goes. Right here in our community, families dealing with one of the hardest things a parent can face. When a child receives a cancer diagnosis, it’s overwhelming for everyone involved, and Brave Like Ellie steps in to lift families up by providing for both needs and wants through these thoughtfully curated boxes. Your toy donation, whether it’s a board game, art supplies, or a stuffed animal, becomes part of a package that reminds a hurting family that their community sees them, cares about them, and is standing with them. That’s why every Toy Maker at our event isn’t just donating, they’re building hope for families who need it most.
FAQ: Your Questions Answered
Do I really not need to RSVP?
Really. Just show up with an unwrapped toy. That’s it. No registration, no tickets, no hassle.
What kind of toy should I bring?
Any new, unwrapped toy is perfect. Here are some ideas:
- Toys for kids 14+ are most needed
- Board games (ages 5-12)
- Art supplies and craft kits
- Sports equipment (balls, frisbees, etc.)
- Books for all reading levels
- STEM/building toys
- Dolls and action figures
- Stuffed animals
- Puzzles
All ages are needed, so whether you grab something for a toddler or a teenager, it’s going to make a difference.
What if I can’t afford to bring a toy?
Come anyway. Seriously. Bring your family, meet Santa, get your photos, enjoy the cocoa and cookies. This event is about COMMUNITY, and you’re part of that whether you bring a toy or not. You just won’t be entered into the raffle.
Are the Santa photos really free?
Yes. Professional Santa, taken on YOUR phone. Zero cost to you. You’ll get your photos and have time to talk with Santa!
How long does the event last?
Santa will be on-site from 5pm to 7pm. Drop in anytime during that window. Stay for 5 minutes or stay for an hour, whatever works for your schedule.
Is there parking?
Plenty of parking at Centre Living Homes. We’ll have team members helping direct traffic so you can get in and out smoothly.
What ages are welcome?
ALL ages. Bring babies, bring teenagers, bring grandparents. This is a family event and everyone is welcome.
Can I tour the homes at Centre Living?
Absolutely! Home tours will be available throughout the event. Whether you’re actively looking or just curious about what Centre Living builds, you’re welcome to check them out.
What if I have more toys to donate but can’t make the event?
Text me at 214-228-0003 and we’ll arrange a drop-off time before the event.
What if the weather is bad?
The event is indoors at Centre Living Homes, so rain or shine, we’re good to go.
Can my business or organization get involved?
Yes! If you want to partner, sponsor, or volunteer, text me at 214-228-0003. We’d love to have you as part of the construction crew.
I have another question.
Text me: 214-228-0003
Email me: [email protected]
More FAQ: North Texas Market Insider
Brave Like Ellie: https://www.bravelikeellie.org/
I respond fast and I’m happy to help.
How to Find Us
Address: Centre Living Homes, 93 Hunter Pass Waxahachie, TX 75165
Google Maps: Centre Living Lakeway Estates
Parking: Available on-site
Accessibility: Fully accessible venue
Toy Ideas: See our Amazon Wishlist
Mark Your Calendar
🚧 Santa’s Construction Zone
📅 10/11/2025
🕐 5pm-7pm
📍 Centre Living Homes
👷 Toymakers Needed
No RSVP. No tickets. Just show up and build some magic.
Share This Event
Know someone who should join the crew? Share this page with them.
The more Toymakers we recruit, the more kids we help. Every share builds more Christmas magic.
See You at the Construction Zone
I can’t wait to see you there, whether you’re a longtime friend, a past client, someone I haven’t met yet, or a family thinking about making Ellis County your home.
This is what community looks like. This is what we’re building together.
Let’s make it happen, Toy Makers. 🚧🎅
Bobby Franklin – REALTOR®
Legacy Realty Group – Leslie Majors Team
214-228-0003
P.S. If you’re reading this and thinking about moving to the Waxahachie area, this event is a perfect snapshot of what makes this community special. We show up for each other. We build together. And we make sure every kid gets a shot at Christmas magic. That’s who we are. Come see for yourself.
Hosted by Bobby Franklin – REALTOR® in partnership with Centre Living Homes. All toys benefit Brave Like Ellie, serving children in our local community.
Join The Discussion