PHARR – The non-profit organization Friends with Helping Hands, comprised of PSJA employees, most of them cancer survivors, helped to raise over $6,000 for two PSJA students battling cancer.
During the 3rd Annual Cancer Walk-a-thon Saturday, October 31, over 300 walkers showed their support by contributing their time and giving a special donation for this cause.
According to Miriam Kellar, president of the organization and teacher at Pharr Elementary, the success of this walk was due to the support and generosity of the individuals that got involved and got others to contribute as well.
“We know that our efforts will make a significant difference in the lives of cancer patients,” she said.
The amount collected will be donated to the families of two PSJA students currently battling cancer. One student attends North San Juan Elementary and the other Bowie Elementary in Alamo. The rest of the funds collected will go to the Comfort House in McAllen.
Friends with Helping Hands would like to recognize several companies and individuals for their contributions to the success of the event. The following individuals and entities made a significant monetary contribution:
Pavement Markings Company of Donna
Costa Mesa Restaurant in McAllen
ACE Customs Broker of Hidalgo
The Staff at McAllen Advanced Imaging Center
Liberty Bail Bonds of Edinburg
Victoria Martinez of Edinburg
Other contributors were: Edna Hernandez who donated hundreds of bottles of water and several boxes of bananas for hungry and thirsty walkers; and Tuff Stuff of El Centro Mall, which donated a number of t-shirts.
“A special thank you goes to the PSJA Central Kitchen staff for providing 65 walkers,” Kellar said. “And the PSJA High School Bearettes for providing dozens of walkers for the second year in a row.”
The organization would also like to thank the Pharr Police Department for coordinating the escort and providing walkers, as well as recognize Chief Ruben Villescas and Superintendent Dr. Daniel King for speaking to the walkers and walking the entire route supporting the cause.
“On behalf of our organization, Friends with Helping Hands, I would like to thank everyone who contributed in any way to this year’s walk, and especially to the officers and members of our organization for helping make this dream a reality,” Kellar said.
