By Pete Vasquez
Pvasquez@cherryroad.com

This Christmas season has been incredibly challenging for some families and their children in the area. There were numerous events supporting Toy Drives this weekend and individuals wanting to make a positive impact on families and the community. The results were that of a winter wonderland.  

The 3rd Annual Amigos del Barrio y del Mundo Toy Drive helped bring holiday cheer to foster children of Jim Wells County. In a rare occasion there was the Grinch and Santa Claus together participating to help brighten someone’s day. 

“Anything is appreciated. We want to make these kids smile and make them feel excited,” said Roel Santos, the founder and managing director of Amigos Del Barrio. 

In the Green Acres area, the Ben Bolt Volunteer Fire Department was handing out free hot dogs and Santa Claus was inside the General Dollar store taking pictures with the kids and accepting unwrapped gifts to help spread joy to those in need this time of the year. 

“We’re always looking for ways to give back and help. Watching those kids smile makes my job that much more worthwhile. I want to extend my deepest gratitude to all who donated,” said Santa Claus, (aka) Danny Buentello. 

Just outside the Jim Wells County courthouse, Santa Claus alongside Judge Pete Trevino, staff, Safety and Maintenance departments and Veterans Officer Daniel Salinas, were out helping the food pantry and the local veterans in the community. The canned food drive was of donations of unexpired canned goods or non-perishable food items. 

“Anything that we could help our veterans and food pantry with is a plus. It’s a thrill to carry on this tradition and send a message of hope to those who gave it all for our freedom,” said Judge Trevino. 

There were people in line donating bags of toys, getting their free hot dogs or their favorite item from the food truck and taking photos with Santa and the Grinch withstanding 46–49-degree temperatures. The individual act of generosity is what makes these events successful.