People waited in long lines outside Drake School in Chicago's Bronzeville neighborhood.
Inside, Hudson and her sister Julia passed out toys to families who need some help this Christmas.
The event is a way of remembering Julia's son. He was just seven years old when he was killed along with his grandmother and uncle.
"It feels good to see something positive, and then this helps keep Julian's legacy going," said Julia Hudson.
"My other bike was too little and I wasn't able to get another one so we came here and I got a bike," said Natesha Stephenson.
"It means a lot and it helps out a lot. Like I say again, a lot of people may not be able to afford to buy any toys for their children," said Yolanda McCornell.
Jennifer Hudson's fiance David Otunga and their young son were also at Saturday's event. The family has held similar toy giveaways in the past.
