Martinez Furniture and Appliance, and Vital Church have given a collective total of more than $1 million in gifts to McAllen police officers.
The gifts for each of the 298 McAllen police officers include a voucher for a new mattress set with a retail worth of $2,000 from Martinez Furniture and a two-night stay at Beach Resort at South Padre Island. Each will also receive a Beach Park at Isla Blanca season pass, a Law Enforcement Bible, 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.”
Inspiration for the donation comes in part from the friendship Martinez Furniture CEO and president Ramon Martinez had with fallen McAllen police officer Edelmiro Garza. Both Garza and Martinez were members of the parking team at Vital Church. After Garza and Officer Ismael Chavez’s untimely passing, Martinez continued in his role on the team. He would talk 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.
“Night of Honor” Dec. 18
Vital Church, in cooperation with Martinez Furniture, will also host a “Night of Honor” in recognition of the McAllen Police Department on Dec. 18, 2020 at 7 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 every day and when we are recognized and honored this way, we are humbled.”