Salvation Army
fundraiser set for
mid-December
Maria Lara / Reporter
The Salvation Army of Corpus Christi recently announced its first 5K Santa Boogie, a fundraiser walk to benefit the group’s Children’s Christmas Program and to help feed the homeless.
Mark Puente, community relations coordinator, has worked for the Salvation Army for over five years.
“The mission of the Salvation Army is to help every person that comes through the doors without discrimination,” Puente said. “The 5K run is going to be a lot of fun that will benefit all the children in the shelter. The fee is $40 and every participant will receive a Santa suit.”
The Salvation Army Canteen will also be present, providing free water and fruit to the Santa runners.
The shelter feeds over 1,000 people each weekday and more than 1,500 on the weekends. On weekends the Salvation Army is open to members of the public who may not be homeless but find themselves hungry when school is out.
Steven Doe has been a resident and has cooked for the Salvation Army for nearly a year. He said he is thankful that there is a place that is helping him during this rough time in his life.
“The Santa Boogie is great way to spend time with your friends and family while helping out for a great cause. I will be passing out beverages and snacks in the Canteen to help out,’’ Doe said.
Jesse Elizondo, director of the local Salvation Army, is one of the coordinators for the Boogie Run and is hopeful for a huge turnout.
“We need all the help we can get to make sure all the kids have a wonderful Christmas. All the proceeds are going to benefit the Salvation Army; 97 cents of every dollar will go to helping the children and the shelter,” Elizondo said.
The Santa Boogie is set for 8:30 a.m. Dec. 14 at Cole Park, 1526 Ocean Drive. The $40 registration fee includes a full Santa suit costume.
For more information on registration or making donations, call 884-9497 or visit www.facebook.com/CorpusChristiSantaBoogie.
