Dallas YMCA delivers holiday cheer to more than 1,000 North Texas families

Those families will enjoy gifts and meals this week, made possible by volunteers with the Y

The YMCA of Metropolitan Dallas is spreading holiday cheer to more than 1,000 families across North Texas through its sixth annual Catalyst Christmas initiative.

What began as a grassroots effort to provide basic pantry items has grown significantly over the years.

This season, the program has tripled in reach, offering household essentials, holiday treats, and messages of encouragement to families in need. To remove barriers for those facing transportation challenges, the YMCA delivered gift boxes directly to homes.

“During Christmas time and the way the economy is right now, there are people struggling to make ends meet,” said volunteer Lorena Enriquez. “I know this will help them a lot. A meal for Christmas or during the week, they can maybe save some money to get presents for the kids, and they won’t have to think about groceries.”

The YMCA says the goal is not only to provide necessities but also to show families they are cared for during difficult times.

“We want to make sure that when the families receive these items, they know that they’re loved, that they are thought about, that someone is here to provide support in their time of need,” said Latecia Patton, Vice President of Community Impact for the Dallas YMCA.

According to the North Texas Food Bank, 1 in 6 North Texans is food insecure. Organizers say they are always looking for volunteers, donations, and sponsorships to help grow the initiative.

For more information on how to get involved for next year's effort, contact Lpatton@ymcadallas.org with the YMCA.