The Free Store Corpus Christi swiftly responds by distributing vital clothing to those in need during cold weather.

CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas — The Free Store Corpus Christi is often among the first nonprofits to respond during a crisis, especially in cold weather.

CEO and founder Marliena Garza said within 30 minutes of arriving at the FEMA Dome, the nonprofit nearly ran out of 60 pounds of clothing, but that hasn’t stopped the group from continuing to help keep the community warm.

“Homelessness is not a crime. It’s not a crime to be poor, and we are all very, very much closer to being here in one of these warming shelters,” Garza said. “In the blink of an eye, you could lose your home and be here, and you’ll be relieved to see someone like me walking through the door because you’ll know the Free Store is here.”

Allan Byrd understands firsthand what the homeless community may be facing during cold weather.

“You’ve got a situation where you have people who are used to warm weather, and all of a sudden it comes up,” Byrd said. “They’re not either mentally or physically able to take care, and then boom, it’s there.”

After getting help from Garza and her nonprofit, Byrd is now giving back.

“I have because I was homeless. I got in a situation that it created, and of course I’ve wiggled my way out,” Byrd said. “I’ve sometimes been helping here, and she has helped, and I’ve known her for a couple of years and watched her help. You’ve just got to pass it on.”

The nonprofit is always prepared, even with a 12-hour notice.

“These cold snaps push us to our logistical limits. We plan for these cold snaps eight to nine months in advance, so the jacket donations we receive that we don’t give out are vacuum-sealed,” Garza said.

Especially during cold weather, Garza said it’s important to help keep everyone bundled up.

“It’s a matter of life and death. You can succumb to hypothermia and frostbite in temperatures as high as 70 degrees,” Garza said. “If you get wet and the wind is blowing hard enough, you could die, and we’re going to be seeing temperatures tonight.”

Garza said the nonprofit will continue distributing warm clothing.  To donate to The Free Store Corpus Christi, you can drop items at 702 Furman Ave from 8am-8pm. For more information on the Free Store click here.