Club Helps Underserved Children with Toys, Clothes, Food, Bedding and More

Caring for America in the Central Texas Republican Women community means ensuring children have toys, clothes, and necessities, including hygiene products, blankets, a mattress, and a bed.

During the November meeting, Central Texas RW invited the local nonprofit Jeffrey’s Tree, Inc., which serves children across Central Texas, to share about the ministry. Additionally, club members were invited to donate toys, and the effort filled the toy box to overflow capacity.  Jeffrey’s Tree Founder and Marine Veteran Dagne Ameigh shared the organization's story and mission, which is named after her son, who would use his own school lunch money to help kids in need. Sadly, her son passed away, and Dagne carried on the selfless legacy of her son, and the non-profit Jeffrey’s Tree was born.

Following Dagne Ameigh’s presentation, club Caring for America Chair Kathy Ruiz and President Janet Brown presented Jeffrey’s Tree with a $500 check to help kick off their Christmas initiative. At the December Central Texas RW meeting, the club Executive Board presented Jeffrey’s Tree with a $300 donation in the name of President Janet Brown, to honor her lifelong mission to be a voice for children, especially those who have been abused or trafficked.

Throughout November and December, countless Central Texas RW "elves" volunteered at Jeffrey's Tree warehouse to help fill Christmas wishes (boxes) for local kids and traveled to distribute boxes at area schools. Jeffrey’s Tree will soon have club members serve on the Board as the ministry grows. The year-round effort at Jeffrey’s Tree helps ensure that vulnerable children and families feel the love, security, and warmth of a responsive community. Central Texas RW Caring for America, a heart- and servant-driven initiative, will be there so club members can join the community to lend a helping hand, because we are better together.