CORPUS CHRISTI, TEXAS – The Corpus Christi IceRays have partnered to provide the first Holiday Hope Drive, collecting new and gently-used items to benefit the residents of Corpus Christi Metro Ministries. All items collected to be presented at the next IceRays home game on Wednesday, December 3 against the Rio Grande Valley Killer Bees.
“We are extremely grateful and blessed that a local organization is here for another local organization,” said Annie Ramirez, Director of Development at Corpus Christi Metro Ministries. “We have been here now for 32 years, and we are extremely grateful for our new partnership with the IceRays.”
The idea began when the IceRays players and staff were given a tour of the facilities on November 11 to show the organization what Corpus Christi Metro Ministries provides. After learning of the backgrounds of the men, women, and children from the Corpus Christi community that reside in the facilities, the IceRays decided to come together to give back and aide those that truly need the help. The visit struck a special chord with IceRays Director of Community Relations, Christine Lanari.
“It was very difficult to see what these community members are going through and their stories,” said Lanari. “Especially around the holiday season, you start to realize how much you have and how much help people need. We want to make sure we can really make a difference in the lives of people that need a little extra help and ensure that all community members are able to live comfortably this holiday season.”
In addition to the players collecting donations from their local neighborhoods and businesses, fans can get involved by donating any of the items listed below to or before the IceRays game on Wednesday, December 3. Any fan that brings five or more items may purchase their tickets at the door for just $5. Community members may also bring their donations to the IceRays Front Office leading up to the game as well as the week following, and all donations will go directly to Corpus Christi Metro Ministries.
“It’s the small things that we often take for granted that mean the world to these people,” said Ramirez. “A lot of people come here with just the clothes on their back. We want them to know that they’re not just a nameless face, but that they are important.”
About Corpus Christi Metro Ministries
Corpus Christi Metro Ministries strives to help create a community free of hunger and homelessness by providing a place to stay for the chronically homeless and hundreds of disadvantaged community members. They have five distinct programs for members of the surrounding area: Gabbard Memorial Health Clinic, Loaves & Fishes Cafeteria, Rainbow House Shelter (for women and children), Rustic House Shelter (for men), and Vineyard Social Services and Employment Assistance.
The IceRays head back on the road Friday, November 27 as they start a two-game set against the Rio Grande Valley Killer Bees. Coverage begins at 7:15 p.m. on SportsRadio Corpus Christi and FASTHockey.com with the opening faceoff at 7:30 p.m. Call the front office at 361-814-7825 for season and individual ticket details or check out the pricing and seating chart online at www.goicerays.com. Stay current with the latest team news by visiting www.goicerays.com. In addition, stay connected with the IceRays on Facebook (/CorpusChristiIceRays), Twitter (@goicerays), and YouTube (IceRays TV).
Corpus Christi Metro Ministries Wish List
Client Needs:
• Detergent
• Infant Care Items
• Twin-Size Bedding
• Pillows
• Knit Caps
• Warm Socks
• Coats (Adult & Child)
• HEB & Wal-Mart Gift Cards
• Diapers
• Gloves
• Travel Hygiene Items
Highest Needs:
• Warm Clothes & Blankets
• Ambassadors
• Operating Funds
Equipment & Supplies:
• Passenger Van
• Pickup Truck – Long Bed
• Storage Unit
Facilities:
• Landscaping & Irrigation
• New A/C Units
Volunteers:
• Nurses
• Doctors (min. 2 hrs./mo.)
