Texas Border Business
By Roberto Hugo González / Texas Border Business
EDINBURG, Texas – McAllen Mayor Javier Villalobos partnered with community leaders to sponsor holiday gifts for students at IDEA Public Schools through the Adopt Angels initiative. The effort took place in the Rio Grande Valley and focused on supporting students during the holiday season through community and business collaboration.
The partnership included Maria Antonia Chapa, a community leader and advocate for children’s education, who also serves as a public relations executive to the mayor, an IDEA board member, and owner of NXSP Development LLC.
The initiative directly supported students at IDEA Edinburg, located at 2553 N. Roegiers Road in Edinburg, Texas. The event took place at 9 a.m. and aimed to ensure that students experienced encouragement and community support during the holidays.
“Giving back to our students is about more than presents. It is about investing in their confidence, their future, and reminding them that their community cares,” Villalobos said. “We are grateful to partner with leaders who consistently step up to serve our children.”
During the visit, Villalobos spoke directly to students about the importance of education and community involvement. “One of the best things I like about being mayor is visiting students and going to different schools,” he said. “I am very excited to be here.”
Villalobos described the campus as a “hidden gem” and praised the school community. “You all have a great school,” he said. “Today I am so happy because it is Christmas time. It is a spirit of giving, and today I am blessed to be able to give you all just a little bit of something.”
He also shared a personal message about education. “My mom and dad went to the second grade and seventh grade. They always instilled in me the power and the need for education,” Villalobos said. “Education is the key to success: education, high school, college. Keep on going. I did it. You all can too.”
Chapa emphasized the role of community involvement in student success. “Our children deserve to feel supported, especially during the holidays,” she said. “This partnership represents what can happen when public leadership, private business, and service-minded individuals come together for a greater purpose.”
The Adopt Angels program connects community sponsors with IDEA students to help fulfill holiday wishes and support classrooms across the Rio Grande Valley. Organizers said the initiative reflects continued efforts by local leadership and businesses to support students and strengthen families throughout the region.
Villalobos closed his remarks by thanking the students and staff. “I am very proud of you,” he said. “Thank you for allowing me to be here with you today, and Merry Christmas.”
