EL PASO, Texas (KFOX14) — This holiday season, Operation H.O.P.E. is continuing its mission of spreading light, love, and support across the Borderland while celebrating a major milestone along the way.
The longtime nonprofit is marking 30 years of service to the El Paso community and they’re doing it the way they know best; by giving back. This month Operation H.O.P.E. will host its annual Trunk of HOPE event, a family friendly holiday tradition designed to bring joy to children and families who may be experiencing difficult times.
For Rubi Gomez, who now carries the legacy of her late father and Operation H.O.P.E. founder Angel Gomez, the milestone is both meaningful and deeply personal.
“What many people don’t realize is that Operation H.O.P.E. started with just five people, my father, my mother, myself, my husband and now my son,” Gomez shared. “It takes a lot of teamwork, effort, and partnerships to be able to help make a difference in the community.”
After her father’s passing earlier this year, Gomez stepped into a leadership role, determined to continue the trust and compassion her father built over the decades.
“I’m trying to make those same connections and develop that strong relationship with our community,” Gomez said. “For many years they had faith in my father, the trust, so now I’m hoping to gain that trust and let people know that we are here to help and serve.”
That hope comes to life through Trunk of HOPE, an event that brings together local law enforcement, community partners, and even a league of real-life superheroes. Families are invited to enjoy a fun, positive atmosphere where children can take photos, meet first responders, and receive a toy for the holidays – something they might not have otherwise been able to get.
The event will take place at 10 a.m. on Saturday, Dec. 20 at the El Paso Police Station, 4801 Osborne Drive. The event is first come, first serve. Families simply line up and enjoy the experience together.
Operation H.O.P.E. is also welcoming community partners and donations to help make the event possible.
For those looking to spread some holiday cheer, Trunk of HOPE offers the perfect reminder of what the season is all about – hope, connection, and coming together for one another.
OPERATION H.O.P.E.
(915) 590-0490
11201 Armour Dr Ste. A
Facebook @ operationhopeelpaso
Instagram @ operationhopeelpaso2018