Community rallies for holiday giving

As the holiday season approaches, local organizations in Socorro are stepping up to ensure families in need experience the warmth and joy of giving. From Christmas gifts to Thanksgiving meals, several initiatives are underway to support residents across the county.

Giving Tree tradition continues

For more than 35 years, the Giving Tree program at San Miguel Parish has been a cornerstone of holiday generosity in Socorro. This year, nine agencies are participating, including Children, Youth & Families (Foster Care), Puerto Seguro (Homeless Assistance), El Puente (Domestic Violence Shelter), First Born Socorro, Socorro Wellness & Rehabilitation, Animal Protective Association of Socorro, Forget Me Not Veterans, Socorro Schools At-Risk Students, and Socorro Seniors/Meals on Wheels.

Gift tags can be picked up from the three trees at the church’s side and front entrances or at the church office starting Thanksgiving Day. Wrapped gifts with tags attached must be returned by Dec. 11, and distribution to agencies will take place on Dec. 16. Volunteers are welcome to help sort and deliver gifts.

“It’s very rewarding to help the people in our community that need help,” said Valerie Moore, who has coordinated the Giving Tree for decades.

CYFD Thanksgiving basket drive

The Children, Youth & Families Department is hosting a Thanksgiving basket drive to provide holiday meals for families. Donations can be dropped off at the CYFD office, 104 S. 6th St., Socorro, by Nov. 24 at 3 p.m.. Suggested items include turkey or ham, potatoes, rolls, gravy, vegetables, stuffing, drinks and dessert. Organizers ask that meals be uncooked (frozen is fine) and placed in boxes or laundry baskets for delivery.

“I like to do clothes baskets for [the food], and that also gives the family a clothes basket. I just figure clothes baskets work fantastic,” Client Service Agent for CYFD Donna Sanchez, said.

CYFD has identified 10 families in need, ranging from single adults to households with multiple children, including infants.

“If we run out of family numbers, we’ll still accept baskets and make sure they go to families who need them,” Sanchez said.

Toys for Tots Spreads Holiday Cheer

The Marine Corps Toys for Tots program, led locally by Police Chief Angel Garcia and the Socorro Police Department, is collecting toys for children across Socorro County. Donation boxes are set up at Walmart, Tractor Supply, the Socorro Public Library and Dollar General. The drive runs through Dec. 12, with distribution beginning shortly after.

Families can register for toys online at toysfortots.org or in person at Walmart, where volunteers will assist with sign-ups. Garcia said donations are down this year, making community support more critical than ever.

“Any donations this year are greatly appreciated,” he said. “We’re ready to put a smile on all these kids’ faces.”

How to help

Giving Tree: Pick up tags at San Miguel Church starting Thanksgiving; return gifts by Dec. 11. For details, call Valerie Moore, 505-264-3072, or Margaret Middleton, 835-4641.

CYFD Basket Drive: Drop off baskets by Nov. 24 at CYFD office, 104 S. 6th St. Suggested items: turkey/ham, potatoes, rolls, veggies, stuffing, drinks, dessert. For questions or to select a family, call 575-740-6744 or Patricia Padilla, 505-487-0896.

Toys for Tots: Donate toys at Walmart, Tractor Supply, library, or Dollar General by Dec. 12.