Corpus Christi hosts
many opportunities
to help those in need
Sarah Fecht / Reporter
Corpus Christi is a community full of opportunities to serve those less fortunate. In this holiday season, we tend to think of our families. But there are those who are just looking for a bed to sleep in, a meal to eat and a jacket to keep warm. Several organizations help those in need, but they can’t do it without volunteers.
The Station Church at 209 S. Tancahua St., is a faith-based organization that helps feed the homeless as well as provide them with a Bible study and a recovery group. The group provides meals Sundays, Wednesday and Fridays, and volunteers are always needed.
The Station Church is also working on its fourth annual “Lifepack Project,” which includes filling 250 backpacks with items they believe will help the homeless. Volunteers are sought to purchase the supplies, fill the bags and hand them out on Dec. 17. Contact Ryan Pflughaupt at 434-0325 or go to www.thestationcc.org to help.
Another organization that reaches out to the homeless is Metro Ministries, at 1919 Leopard St., which is home to Loaves and Fishes, where the homeless come to eat daily. To help the group, call 887-0151. For more information, go to www.ccmetro.org.
One other well-known organization is The Salvation Army. During the Christmas season, you will see the red kettle collectors in front of stores with the familiar ringing of the bell inviting you to donate to those in need. The organization also holds the Angel Tree project to ensure kids get gifts for Christmas. For more information visit www.salvationarmytexas.org.
There are also nonprofit organizations focused on helping abused and neglected children. The only short-term shelter in Corpus Christi serving children is the Ark Assessment Center and Emergency Shelter for Youth, at 12960 Leopard St. The Ark provides clothes, meals, rooms, bathroom and shower facilities and play areas for the children. Anyone can donate gently used clothing and toys. Things that are always appreciated are diapers, wipes and diaper rash cream. For more information on ways to help, contact Sister Milagros Tormo at 241-6566 or go to www.ark4kids.com/home.html.
Another organization that works with abused and neglected children is the Rainbow Room, which is always seeking new clothes. If you would like to help, contact Emma Menchaca at 956-270-2284 or emma.menchaca@dfps.state.tx.us.
These are only a few of the organizations to help in our community. During this holiday season it’s important to look beyond ourselves and our circumstances and see the needs of others as well.
