Last week Texas RioGrande Legal Aid (TRLA) inaugurated its first bankruptcy legal clinic in Nueces County. The clinic is aimed at helping low-income Texans in the area handle various legal issues related to filing for bankruptcy and depends upon the volunteer efforts of local private attorneys.

To become a pro bono attorney with TRLA, click here.

TRLA El Paso carried on their tradition for another year by having a food drive, taking up donations, and hosting a silent auction to support several adopted families in the community.

See the results for yourself:

To view the complete photo album, click here.

So every December, in the spirit of the holiday season, TRLA staff in several offices select families we have helped with legal issues this year and help them in another very special way — by giving them a Christmas they will never forget.

This year, Domitila’s family was one of the lucky families selected.

A victim of domestic violence, Domitila has struggled to overcome abuse and help her 8 children build a better life on her own. But things have been hard.

The family doesn’t have any beds to sleep on, much less have blankets that will keep them warm this winter. And dreams of a Christmas with books and toys under a tree were far fetched.

For TRLA’s Austin office, a group of anonymous donors sponsor the holiday tradition ever year. This year they made sure that Domitila’s family didn’t just get beds and blankets this Christmas, they received toys, books, needed household supplies, and other items that they would not be able to afford otherwise.

After a year of struggling just to get by, Domitila and her family will celebrate this Christmas knowing that they are safe and protected from abuse. And, thanks to some special elves, they’ll have a few presents under the tree to share the Christmas cheer.

See Domitila’s children react as they find out that the presents under the tree are for them: