The annual holiday party put on by the Boston Police Department’s District B-3 Office distributed close to 850 presents to area children.

“We do it for the community and the kids,” said Joseph Boyle, captain of B-3. “We want to make sure everyone has a good Christmas.”

Hundreds of eager children descended on Mattapan’s Mildred Avenue Community Center Wednesday night for a chance to meet Santa.

The youths, who hail from Dorchester and Mattapan, enjoyed a night full of fun, with arts and crafts, pizza, and a visit by Bonaparte the Magician.

The Nutcracker and his Toy Solider, played by officers at B-3, also made an appearance Wednesday to greet the children.

“You don’t see this everywhere,” said Boston Police Commissioner Edward F. Davis, who stopped at the event to wish everyone a happy holidays. “You can tell there is a strong link between this community and its police.”

Anejia Moten, 7, concentrated on her drawing.

While Santa worked hard greeting all of the neighborhood’s children, it was the volunteers who made sure the event was fun for everyone.

Anne Wilcox, left, is the civilian liaison for B-3. She served plenty of fruit punch.

Santa had plenty of helpers while he greeted children.

Nicole Purvis, who works for City Councilor Charles Yancey, gave out presents by the armful.

At the end of the night plenty of children left the community center with big smiles, making sure not to open their presents until Christmas Day.

Tammi Espinola, a youth services officer with B-3, helped give out presents Wednesday.