METRO Spreads Thanksgiving Cheer to Aldine-ISD Families

In the spirit of Thanksgiving, METRO employees from Polk and Fallbrook bus operating facilities came together to provide Thanksgiving dinner boxes to nine families at Garcia-Leza Primary School in Aldine ISD.

Garcia-Leza Principal Patricia Willis said the turkey drive began with a simple request.

“Our school counselor, Ms. Charlotta Haynes, reached out to METRO and asked if the organization would be interested in helping some of our families in need for the holidays,” said Willis.

METRO Transportation Superintendents Edgar Morales and Gillian Pugh agreed to lead the initiative to provide Thanksgiving food boxes to select families. Employees collected turkeys and traditional Thanksgiving sides, but also cookies, chips, and juice that children could enjoy over the Thanksgiving break.

Morales expressed his gratitude for the enthusiastic efforts of Polk and Fallbrook's operators and employees. He also thanked Pugh and another colleague, Daphne Flores, for their assistance.

“It’s a team effort, and our folks are always ready to assist,” said Morales. “Daphne took care of the shopping over two days, and a team of operators from Polk assembled the boxes. Employee donations funded the entire project.”

The impact of METRO's Thanksgiving dinner box donation was evident in the faces of the children and their families. Their expressions of gratitude reflected the true meaning of the holiday – a time to come together, share with others, and express appreciation for the blessings in our lives.

“I feel privileged and honored to be a part of this,” said METRO Bus Operator Christopher Crosby, who was spotted carrying boxes to waiting families. “Walking into the school and seeing the kids holding signs welcoming and thanking us made my heart melt.”

METRO's commitment to giving back to the community is not just a holiday tradition; it's an integral part of the organization's culture.

"I often see the dedication of METRO employees extend beyond providing transportation," said Pugh. "They are not only committed to connecting individuals to essential destinations but also to actively supporting communities through impactful outreach initiatives."