SAN ANGELO, Texas — With all the joy of the holiday season, there is also an element of sadness for some that is often overlooked.
More often than not, victims of domestic abuse are left feeling a sense of hopelessness during this time of year, especially as they try to rebuild a large part of their lives.
On Dec. 20, San Angelo Police Chief Frank Carter received an anonymous $3,000 donation, which he decided to use to provide gifts for those who are utilizing the services of the Family Shelter of San Angelo.
"Chief Carter came to me yesterday and wanted to know what our needs were as far as child gifts and I told him we weren't getting as many of the toy drives," Family Shelter program director and legal advocate Valerie Tillery said.
Carter sent out his public information officer and fellow members of the San Angelo Police Department to purchase gifts at Target and they returned to the shelter soon thereafter where, "They came and they all lined it [donations] up and brought it outside," Tillery said.
"We were so excited 'cuz they were actually able to get robes and pajamas."
Donated items included towels, baby dolls, miniature kitchen appliances and more.
Once inside the shelter, items were gift-wrapped by volunteers and members of the staff, where they will be placed in front of residents' doors on Christmas morning.
The shelter serves Tom Green County along with 15 others in the area and with such a large number of people in need, every donation counts.
"We've got about 200 adults and children and we're trying to make sure they have a really, really good Christmas with gifts and everything and plus, some of them are getting food boxes, too," Tillery said.
West Texas community members have the chance to "adopt" a family in need each November to provide holiday items.
Despite the help of this "adoption" program, Tillery "was kind of getting a little nervous to make sure we filled all the Christmas bags."
Now, she no longer has to worry, nor do those who receive support from the nonprofit organization.
"We do want them to know we're gonna provide for them one way or another," Tillery said.
For individuals and families who have suffered so much abuse, something as simple as holiday presents can mark the beginning of their return to happiness.
