North Loop School Collects Clothing For Family

By Miguel Martinez

EL PASO — A fire in El Paso’s Lower Valley destroyed an apartment and left one family homeless, Monday members of the El Paso Fire Department,the Red Cross and one local retailer helped to bring back some of the Christmas joy.

Anira Garcia and her three boys, ages 7, 3, and 2 lost everything they had in the blaze that overtook the family’s apartment on December 13.

On this the eve of Christmas, RafaelRodriguez, an engineer with EPFD and someother firefighters brought in bags of wrapped toys and clothing.Rodriguez said he had to something for her and her kids.

“The only things she had were the clothes on her back. I took it upon myself to help her out,” Rodriguez said. The Red Cross and a local K-mart store also donated clothing and toys for Garcia’s three boys.

Garcia was overjoyed by the community’s outpouring of love and support. “I’m very happy and grateful that they did such a noble thing,” Garcia said.

Afundwas established by North Loop Elementary, the childrens’ school,with State National Bankto help out Garcia withfinances.

Those wishing to donate to the Garcia Family Fire Relief Fund can go to any State National Bank branch location.

The account number is 2333312458. Questions can be directed to Anthony Fraga, principalat North Loop Elementary School, (915) 434-2800.