TITLE: Recognizing Alec Martinez, Silvia Castanos, and the volunteers of Red Wing United for their relief efforts during the COVID-19 pandemic.

SUMMARY: Recognizing Alec Martinez, Silvia Castanos, and the volunteers of Red Wing United for their relief efforts during the COVID-19 pandemic.

FULL TEXT:
WHEREAS, The Senate of the State of Texas is pleased to recognize Red Wing United in Laredo and to honor the organization's founders and volunteers for their relief efforts during the COVID-19 pandemic; and WHEREAS, Alec Martinez and Silvia Castanos established Red Wing United with a mission to ensure access to clean drinking water for Laredo residents and to address issues of inequality; the young founders initiated their efforts by distributing bottled water to those in need and by hosting teach-ins to help inspire community participation and leadership; and WHEREAS, At the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, Red Wing United shifted a portion of its limited funds to food purchases, and volunteers began delivering boxes of food to local families; the organization established emergency relief funds in Laredo and in the Rio Grande Valley, and it soon partnered with the South Texas Food Bank to expand its distribution; this partnership, along with the support of local leaders and community donors, enabled Red Wing United to expand its services and begin distributing over-the-counter medicines and medical supplies to those in need; and WHEREAS, Members of Red Wing United continually adapt their focus to the changing needs of the community by helping to weatherize homes and by providing transportation, participating in wellness checks, and offering a great variety of other services; and WHEREAS, Red Wing United is able to continue its mission through the selfless support of dedicated volunteers; the once tiny grassroots organization has grown to become a regional model for local relief efforts, and all associated with this exemplary group can reflect with pride on their valuable contributions to the Laredo community; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That the Senate of the State of Texas, 87th Legislature, hereby commend Alec Martinez, Silvia Castanos, and the volunteers and supporters who have contributed their time and efforts to Red Wing United and extend to all best wishes for the organization's continued success; and, be it further RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution be prepared for Red Wing United as an expression of esteem from the Texas Senate. Zaffirini President of the Senate I hereby certify that the above Resolution was adopted by the Senate on March 17, 2021.