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. As mentioned above, donating new or gently used coats, blankets, and other cold weather items 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 local website at Goodwill Industries of South Texas.
With a diverse range of assistance programs that include Emergency Aid, Rural Outreach, Immigration & Refugee Services, 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 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 in many different ways. 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 temporarily 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 their website at Ronald McDonald House or you can reach them by phone at 361-854-4073.
Additionally, there is The Helping Hands Food Pantry in Port Aransas which is operated by the Community Presbyterian Church. The Food Pantry provides perishable and nonperishable foods, personal care items, and diapers to anyone in need in Port Aransas. Donations of nonperishable items may be brought to the Community Presbyterian Church at 113 S. Alister St. Port Aransas, TX 78373. Checks can be made out to Port Aransas Food Pantry and mailed to Port Aransas Food Pantry, P.O. Box 147, Port Aransas, TX, 78373.
Rockport-Fulton Good Samaritans is an organization which was established by volunteers, built by volunteers, and manned by volunteers. It exists to help citizens of Aransas County. Good Samaritans gives out food, provides help with clothing, utilities, shelter, medical services, and many other needs. Rockport-Fulton Good Samaritans is located at 507 South Ann Street, Rockport, Texas 78382, and their phone number is (361) 790-9828. Also, you can visit their website at Rockport-Fulton Good Samaritans.
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. 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 Aransas County and Nueces County (Part). He can be contacted at todd.hunter@house.texas.gov or at 512-463-06
