Somebody Cares America Hosts Appreciation Day for Border Patrol Workers & Families

FAITH NEWS SERVICE – Somebody Cares America partnered with local churches, city leaders, and SCA network ministries for Patrol Appreciation Day on April 1 in Mission, Texas.

“It was a wonderful day to join with other believers to be a tangible expression of God’s love alongside local leaders and groups as we served and encouraged all of those keep our borders safe—border patrol, law enforcement, and National Guard—as well as their families,” said Doug Stringer. “It was very memorable and heartwarming. So many wonderful testimonies and deep gratitude.”

Over 500 BBQ meals were served, with give-aways such as hundreds of Behind The Badge and other devotionals; 144 Somebody Cares Bears; many of Doug’s books (Born To Die, Leadership Awakening, and their study guides); and many other resources provided by partnering groups and churches.

The primary purpose of the event was to show appreciation, gratitude, and support for all the men and women who patrol, serve, and protect our border.

“These men and women are an integral part of the Rio Grande Valley community and beyond,” Doug said. “These unsung heroes serve with no fanfare or public acknowledgment, yet their service is of critical importance to all of us. “

“It was an honor to volunteer alongside Somebody Cares and other organizations during this much needed event to recognize the hard-working border workers, their spouses, and families,” said Deanna Hinson from SCA partner Beth Mission Outreach Center in Roma, Texas.

On Thursday, March 30, the Stringers also attended a meeting of the National Faith Leaders Border Forum in Mission/McAllen.

SCA acknowledges these local leaders who participated in the event:

• Mayor Norie Garza
• Mayor Pro Tem/Councilman Ruben Plata
• City Manager Randy Perez
• Chief of Police Cesar Torres
• Assistant Chief of Police Ted Rodriguez
• Assistant Chief of Police Jody Tittle
• Assistant City Manager Aida Lerma

Partnering organizations include:

• The Patrol Appreciation Committee
• RGV Patrol Wives
• Texas Pastor Council
• Paige Mudd & Friends
• Holy Smoke USA BBQ Team
• BloodNFire/Somebody Cares San Antonio
• Ally Force Ministries, Minneapolis
• BloodNFire Muncie, Indiana
• Bethel Outreach Mission
• Law Enforcement Chaplains
• Local Churches
• And many others.

“A special thank you goes to Pastor Jaime Loya of Cross Church for introducing me to City Councilman and Mayor Pro Tem, Ruben Plata, and connecting us to this fabulous Event Center and team!” Stringer added. “Thank you as well to our friend Pastor Chali Martinez of Vital Church for helping us and for providing us with an additional BBQ pit.”

The Rio Grande Valley’s Jaime Garcia, former MLB player and World Series Champion pitcher with the St. Louis Cardinals, also came out to show his support by talking with guests and taking pictures in the photo booth.

“Thank you to the City of Mission, Texas, for all their support and partnership,” Stringer said.

CONTACT: Doug Stringer or Jodie Chiricosta, 713-621-1498