As we dive headfirst into the holiday season, countless organizations across the Coastal Bend want every family to celebrate with food on the table, gifts under the tree and most importantly, dignity. Whether you’re looking to donate items, sponsor a local cause or volunteer your time, these organizations offer meaningful opportunities to give back and support our neighbors in need.
Esperanza de Tejas’ Annual Christmas of Hope
Join Esperanza de Tejas in spreading love and hope to Coastal Bend families this winter during its fifth annual Christmas of Hope event on Friday, Dec. 19. In partnership with Free Store Corpus Christi, the organization will offer a wide variety of free items for families in need. Organizers are asking for donations of several types, as well as volunteers to help ensure the event runs smoothly. Find the donation list and sign up for volunteer hours at esperanzadetejas.org.
The Salvation Army’s Adopt an Angel
Almost 50 years in, the Salvation Army’s Adopt an Angel program has become synonymous with the holiday season. Christmas trees adorned with white paper angels—found in La Palmera Mall, participating Walmarts and the Salvation Army store—bear the gift lists of children in need that volunteers will shop for. Lists include the child’s age, clothing sizes and desired toys. Participants must drop off purchased items at the Salvation Army administration building or store before Dec. 12. Those looking for a more hands-off approach can also digitally give wishlist items through Walmart’s Registry for Good.
H-E-B Feast of Sharing
Year-round, no store does more than our local H-E-B, and Christmastime is no exception. Each holiday season, the annual Feast of Sharing brings together families and friends in need for a celebration worth its weight in gold, offered at no cost to the community. Taking place on Saturday, Dec. 20, at the Hilliard Center, festivities will include a hearty dinner, live music and plenty of holiday cheer. Those interested in volunteering at the event can sign up for a time through the Google Form linked on the H-E-B website.
Catholic Charities of Corpus Christi’s Community Christmas
Catholic Charities of Corpus Christi runs on community support. During the holidays, the center asks volunteers to help run its annual Community Christmas fundraiser. This event extends a helping hand to Coastal Bend families who need assistance with holiday dinners by distributing food baskets Dec. 16-18. Sign up to help Catholic Charities by filling out the volunteer registration form online. If interested in sponsorship opportunities, reach out to Becky Pugh at (361) 884-0651.
The Coastal Bend Food Bank
During the busy holiday season, consider helping out at your local food bank in whatever way you can. Drop off non-perishables and household items to the Coastal Bend Food Bank, or select an amount to donate through its website. To help on a more hands-on basis, sign up to pass out items by registering to volunteer online, where you can select a date and time that works best for you. For more information on acceptable donations and how to get involved, visit coastalbendfoodbank.org.
