MCALLEN, Texas - For the past 31 years, community leader Luciano "Chano" Garza, III, and 13th Court of Appeals Justice Nora Longoria have run an annual charity event that sees Christmas toys donated to children in need in Hidalgo County.
Their collection of toys have benefited non-profit organizations such as Miracle Kids of South Texas, Toys for Tots, Channel 5 Toy Drive, Angels of Love, and for the past five years, Catholic Charities of the Rio Grande Valley.
Sister Norma Pimentel, executive director of Catholic Charities RGV, says the toys go the migrant children that pass through the McAllen Respite Center.
"We are so grateful to these Toy Drive Sponsors, and especially my good friends Chano Garza and Justice Nora Longoria, for always opening up their big, gentle hearts and collect these Christmas toys for our children here at Respite Center,” Pimentel said.
“The holidays are always difficult for these less fortunate children and their families, and every Christmas toy, from a Barbie, bear, baseball, etc., help put a smile on these innocent children's faces.”
Pimentel added: "God has truly blessed these children with Chano and Justice Nora's Sponsors, their friends who generously donate money and toys for our children. Thank you from the bottom of my heart for your kindness, generous donations and love at Christmastime.”
A big supporter of the toy drive is state Sen. Morgan LaMantia. She gave the Rio Grande Guardian an interview about the program. Here it is:
Editor’s Note: If you would like to donate a new, unwrapped Christmas toy for Catholic Charities RGV, please drop off your donation at Barrel House Restaurant located at 1927 S. Tourist Dr. Edinburg, Texas beginning after Thanksgiving until December 12th, 2024. Or you may also drop off your Christmas toy at the McAllen Respite Center, located across from the McAllen Bus Station.
