Twenty Delta volunteers brought some holiday cheer to Covenant House teens and young adults in Los Angeles last week, working side by side to build gingerbread houses in a friendly competition.

"These are holiday experiences that we often take for granted, but when you see the joy on their faces, it is clear that this time is so unique and meaningful to them,” said Bill Bedrossian, President and CEO, Covenant House California. “We're so grateful to Delta for being a part of making the holidays special for homeless youth."

The winning teams were awarded gift cards for local restaurants. Following the competition, volunteers joined the participants at Covenant House for pizza. Volunteers also received a tour of the facility and learned more about the programs Covenant House offers to homeless youth.

“It was heartwarming to spend time with these young people and see the talent, potential and the goals they have,” said L.A.-based volunteer Sevan Leipziger – Delta Global Sales. “All of that would have been lost on the streets of Los Angeles if not for the Covenant House.”

The nonprofit Covenant House organization provides care and vital services to homeless, abandoned, abused, trafficked and exploited children throughout the country. Delta supports Covenant House facilities in California, Georgia, Michigan, New York and Toronto, providing volunteers and funding to help the group in its mission of getting kids off the streets.

In addition to last Friday’s festivities, nine Delta leaders recently supported Covenant House by participating in their annual Sleep Out last month to raise awareness and funds to combat youth homelessness.