Texas Border Business
Earlier today, the City of McAllen welcomed Martinez Furniture and Appliance and Vital Church to McAllen City Hall, who announced a donation of gifts to McAllen police officers totaling over one million dollars. The gifts included voucher for a new mattress set with a retail worth of $2,000, donated by Martinez Furniture; a two-night stay at Beach Resort at South Padre Island; a season pass to Beach Park at Isla Blanca; a Law Enforcement Bible; assorted beauty products; and a meal voucher.
“I am always in awe of the incredible generosity of our local business owners and community leaders, especially as they seek to honor those who selflessly and bravely serve our city every day,” said McAllen Mayor Jim Darling. “It is only fitting, as our McAllen Police Officers give of themselves every day, serving our community to ensure our safety and security. They are true heroes and it is that every day heroism that is recognized and honored by this generous donation.”
The donation, was in part, inspired by the friendship Martinez Furniture CEO and president, Ramon Martinez, had with fallen McAllen Police Officer Edelmiro Garza. Both Officer Garza and Martinez were members of the parking team at Vital Church. After his and Officer Ismael Chavez’ untimely passing, Martinez continued in his role on the team, talking to other McAllen police officers who would talk about the challenges of being able to get a good night’s sleep. That sparked something in Martinez, who together with Vital Church Pastor Chali Martinez, came up with the idea of the donation to all 298 McAllen Police Officers.
Vital Church, in cooperation with Martinez Furniture, will host a “Night of Honor” in recognition of the McAllen Police Department on Friday, December 18, 2020 at 7:00 p.m. at Vital Church, 516 E. Beech Avenue in McAllen. The Night of Honor” will consist of prayer, music, a message of encouragement, and the presentation of gift boxes to each active police officer.
“We are humbled,” said McAllen Police Captain Irene Luna, speaking on behalf of the entire McAllen police force. “We do our jobs everyday and when we are recognized and honored this way, we are humbled.”
