With the holiday season upon us, it is important to remember there are many Coastal Bend residents that may need a helping hand this winter. In a previous article, I discussed helping others through Toys for Tots. In this week’s column, I would like to continue that discussion by sharing a few simple ways you can make a significant impact in the life of someone less fortunate this year. I have outlined some of the many giving opportunities available at Coastal Bend charities.
In South Texas, we face high winds and humidity that can be particularly grueling during the winter months and making donations of such items as coats and blankets are especially important this time of year since it is a way to help others stay warm this winter. Goodwill is a great organization that can help with these types of donations. You can find a donation location in your area by contacting them by phone at 361-884-4068 or visiting the Goodwill Industries of South Texas.
With a diverse range of assistance programs that include Emergency Aid, Rural Outreach, Ministry & Life Enrichment for the Disabled, Healthy Living Center, and the Mother Teresa Shelter, Inc., the Catholic Charities offers a number of volunteer and donation opportunities. You can find out more about these services and how to get involved by visiting their website at Catholic Charities of Corpus Christi, Inc. or calling 361-884-0651. Catholic Charities – Corpus Christi is located at 615 Oliver Ct.
The Ronald McDonald House Charities in our area is another great charity that provides comfort and support for families with sick or critically injured children. From donating clothes and ‘wish list’ items to volunteering your time, there are several ways to get involved as outlined on their website such as Administrative Volunteer, the Share-A-Meal Program, Pop Tab, and the Share-A-Night Program. Due to COVID-19, the Ronald McDonald House is not allowing visitors. However, they do need volunteers to assist with delivering catered meals from a restaurant. Also, volunteer shifts have been suspended but you can donate items at yellow donation boxes throughout the Coastal Bend. A few items to donate to the donation boxes are brand new games, small toys, books, crafts, and clothing. To learn more about the Ronald McDonald House Charities, please visit Ronald McDonald House Charities, or you can reach them by phone at 361-854-4073.
Whether it is through donating goods, contributing financially, or volunteering your time, it is my hope that together we can find a way to make this holiday season a bit brighter for those in need.
If you have questions regarding any of the information mentioned in this week’s article, please do not hesitate to call my Capitol or District Office. Please always feel free to contact my office if you have any questions or issues regarding a Texas state agency, or if you would like to contact my office regarding constituent services. As always, my offices are available at any time to assist with questions, concerns, or comments (Capitol Office, 512-463-0672; District Office, 361-949-4603).
– State Representative Todd Hunter, District 32
Rep. Hunter represents part of Nueces County. He can be contacted at todd.hunter@house.texas.gov or at 512-463-0672.
