Community
Community news from McAllen and the Rio Grande Valley.
CommunityFoster Grandparent Program Launches Recruitment Drive for Child Mentors
The Foster Grandparent Program in Texas is actively seeking volunteers aged 55 and older to mentor children with special needs. Unlike traditional foster care, children do not live with their mentors. Volunteers commit 15 to 40 hours weekly and receive a monthly tax-free stipend. The program aims to enhance the academic, social, and emotional development of children. In the past year, foster grandparents served 16,772 children and contributed over 347,000 volunteer hours. The initiative emphasizes building personal relationships and providing support, creating a meaningful experience for both volunteers and children. More information is available at hhs.texas.gov.
Community'We really need it': Salvation Army distributes 150 box fans to Raymondville residents
RAYMONDVILLE, Texas (ValleyCentral) — As triple-digit temperatures continue across the Rio Grande Valley, dozens of Raymondville residents received some relief Wednesday when the Salvation Army distributed 150 box fans to help families stay cool during the summer heat. The Raymondville giveaway is part of the Salvation Army's goal to distribute 600 box fans throughout Cameron
CommunityFood Bank RGV to distribute free produce in Hidalgo
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — The Food Bank RGV will give out free fruits and vegetables to residents on Thursday in Hidalgo. A pop-up mobile produce distribution event will take place from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. at the Payne Arena located at 2600 N. 10th St. A picture ID is requested. Organizers ask that residents
CommunityHidalgo County hike and bike trail getting $850K in safety upgrades
Hidalgo County is set to enhance safety on the hike and bike trail located on North Breyfogle Road with an investment of $850,000. The upgrades will include the installation of seven security cameras and 911 emergency call boxes, scheduled for late August 2026. Currently, 151 solar lights are already installed along the trail. Precinct 3 Commissioner Everardo Villarreal emphasized the importance of communication with residents to ensure the trail meets their needs and keeps them safe.
CommunityBrownsville Opens Master Plan Draft to Public Comment
The City of Brownsville is inviting public feedback on its first-ever Downtown Renaissance Master Plan, which aims to guide development over the next 5 to 10 years. Residents can access draft documents and submit comments until July 23, 2026, via the project website. The plan focuses on enhancing land use, infrastructure, and public spaces, with specific proposals for pedestrian-friendly areas, improved mobility, and mixed-use developments. Key projects include the Adams St. Paseo and Plaza Mayor. City officials emphasize community involvement to shape a vibrant downtown that reflects local history and culture.
CommunityThe Inspiring Journey of a Turkish STC Alum Turned Texas Cop
Cagri Burak Bicak, a 27-year-old graduate of South Texas College, arrived in the Rio Grande Valley in 2024 with limited English skills and a desire to create a new life. Within 18 months, he graduated from STC's Police Academy and became a licensed peace officer in Texas. Bicak faced numerous challenges, including adapting to a new culture and balancing work with his studies. He credits his success to the support of classmates and instructors, as well as his determination. Now, he aims to serve in local police departments while considering further education in law enforcement.
CommunityFan Distribution for Residents of Cameron County
The Salvation Army will distribute 600 fans in Cameron County from July 16 to July 22 in the cities of Brownsville, San Benito, Rio Hondo, and Harlingen. Distribution will be on a first-come, first-served basis until supplies last. •Brownsville: Temple Bethel Church at 2965 Tampico St. on July 16 starting at 10:00 AM. •San Benito: San Benito Community Building at 210 Heywood on July 20 from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM. •Rio Hondo: 121 N. Arroyo Blvd. on July 21 starting at 10:00 AM. •Harlingen: 201 E. Monroe St. on July 22 from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM.
CommunityUSS George Washington Recognizes Donna Native as Top Airwing Warfighter
Airman Alma Gutierrez, a native of Donna, Texas, was honored as the Airwing Warfighter of the Week aboard the USS George Washington (CVN 73) on July 1, 2026. This recognition is part of a program where the ship's captain acknowledges outstanding sailors for their achievements. Gutierrez, serving with Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 102, played a crucial role as an F/A-18 Super Hornet Plane Captain, facilitating 16 aircraft launches and conducting nine inspections, ensuring mission readiness. A 2025 graduate of Phar-San Juan-Alamo Early College High School, she expressed pride in serving her country during her eight months in the Navy.
CommunityBrownsville Celebrates State Recognition After Sweeping Three TAMI Awards for Media and Marketing
The City of Brownsville's Communications & Marketing Department (CMD) and Brownsville TV (BTV) received three TAMI Awards from the Texas Association of Municipal Information Officers during the July 7 Commission Meeting. These awards recognize excellence in municipal communications, including video production and public information campaigns. Brownsville was honored for its State of the City Opening Achievements, a new downtown campaign, and the 89th Annual Grand International Parade. City Manager Alan Guard praised the team's dedication to informing residents and promoting civic engagement. The TAMI Awards highlight the city's commitment to effective communication and community storytelling.
CommunityTexas Shrimp Association Sets Sail with ‘Blessing of the Fleet’
On July 8, the Port of Brownsville hosted the annual Blessing of the Fleet, led by Reverend Joel Flores from Immaculate Conception Cathedral. The event marked the upcoming opening of the commercial shrimp season on July 15. Community members, shrimpers, and local officials gathered to honor those lost in the past year and to pray for a safe and successful season. Challenges facing the shrimp industry include a shortage of work visas and rising fuel prices. To support local shrimpers, Texas lawmakers passed Senate Bill 823, which mandates labeling for shrimp sold in restaurants, helping consumers choose Texas-caught shrimp.
Community"Empty the Shelters" Returns with Its Twelfth Pet Adoption and Donation Campaign
Who is ready to empty the shelters? NBCUniversal Local is back this summer with the 12th edition of "Empty the Shelters," an annual pet adoption and fundraising campaign. The donation drive began on Wednesday and will run until September 15, while the adoption initiative will take place from August 1 to August 31. "Empty the Shelters" brings together NBC and Telemundo-owned stations, as well as their affiliates, with shelters and rescue organizations in their communities to promote pet adoption and raise funds. In 2025, the campaign involved over 1,700 shelters and rescue organizations across 49 states, Washington, D.C., Puerto Rico, and Guam. Since its launch in 2015, "Empty the Shelters" has contributed to over 1.3 million adoptions and raised more than $5.6 million for participating shelters and rescue organizations. Last year, the campaign facilitated over 160,000 adoptions and raised more than $628,000, the highest amount raised since 2020. "Empty the Shelters continues to have an incredible impact on communities thanks to all the people who come together each August to help vulnerable pets and support the animal shelters that care for them," said Meredith McGinn, executive vice president of Diginets and Original Production at NBCUniversal Local, in a statement. "We thank our partners, led by Hill’s Pet Nutrition, as well as the participating stations and shelters that drive this extraordinary effort," McGinn added.
Community4Ever Family: Gabriella
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) -- Every week, CBS4 works to find a forever home for a Rio Grande Valley foster child as part of our “4Ever Family” partnership with the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services. Meet 17-year-old Gabriella, who also goes by the nickname Gabby. Gabby likes to be creative with Lego sets, makeup,
CommunitySalvation Army, H-E-B partner for free box fan distribution in Cameron County
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) -- The Salvation Army of Cameron County is partnering with H-E-B to hand out 600 fans to residents across the lower Rio Grande Valley. The box fans will be distributed starting Wednesday in Raymondville at no cost to help residents beat the Texas heat. Distributions will be hosted in five cities total
CommunityRGV Hispanic Chamber Recognizes Louie Peña as Compadre Ambassador of the Year
The Rio Grande Valley Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (RGVHCC) honored Louie Peña as the Compadre Ambassador of the Year at its annual Noche de Gala Awards Dinner in Mission, Texas. Peña, who has been a member for a year and a half and a Compadre Ambassador for one year, was recognized for his commitment to the Chamber and business growth in the region. With over 30 years in high-tech engineering and now in financial services, Peña helps families achieve financial success. RGVHCC President Cynthia M. Sakulenzki praised Peña as a model ambassador for his dedication and volunteerism.
CommunityCity of Brownsville works to upgrade 5 bus stops
The City of Brownsville is set to upgrade five bus stops, with construction expected to begin in a few weeks. Funded by a $175,000 community development grant, the project will enhance accessibility and include new bus stands, concrete sidewalks, and ADA improvements. The city commissioners approved the initiative during a recent meeting, allowing Brownsville Metro to proceed. Director Gennie Garcia stated that construction could start within 30 days, with completion anticipated in 30 to 60 days, barring any significant weather delays. The stops to be upgraded include locations on Hortencia Boulevard, Southmost Nature Trail, and other Southmost Boulevard intersections.
CommunityBrownsville City Secretary’s Office Earns Prestigious TMCA Achievement of Excellence Award
The City Secretary's Office in Brownsville has received the Achievement of Excellence Award from the Texas Municipal Clerks Association (TMCA). This honor recognizes municipal clerk offices that excel in areas such as compliance, transparency, and effective operations. Brownsville is one of only 42 offices in Texas to achieve this distinction in 2026. The award reflects the hard work of the City Secretary's team and the support from the Mayor and City Commission. Mayra Rios, the City Secretary, expressed pride in her team's commitment to public service and integrity. The award was formally presented at a City Commission meeting on July 7.
CommunityWant to Volunteer at the Olympics? Applications for LA28 Are Now Open
The Olympics will return to Los Angeles for the third time in a historic event in 2028. The LA28 Olympic Games opening ceremony will take place on July 14, 2028, and competitions will run until July 30, 2028. The LA28 Paralympic Games will start on August 15, 2028, and conclude on August 27, 2028. The Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum and SoFi Stadium will host the opening and closing ceremonies. Applications for volunteers are now open, with roles including welcoming attendees, guiding athletes, providing medical and translation services, and supporting venue operations. Approximately 60,000 volunteers are expected to be part of the effort. Interested individuals must be at least 18 years old, fluent in English, and available for a minimum of 10 non-consecutive shifts during the Olympic or Paralympic periods. Training will be provided, and specialized skills are also sought. The program is unpaid, and applicants do not need to be U.S. citizens or California residents.
CommunityWho was the first eliminated from Operación Triunfo United States? Here's how the gala unfolded
The first elimination gala of Telemundo's Operación Triunfo took place, marking a significant moment in the competition for the next music star. Sergio, a 25-year-old Mexican artist living in Los Angeles, was the first contestant to be eliminated after being nominated alongside Karol. He expressed gratitude to his supporters and family before leaving the stage. The competition offers a $100,000 prize and a chance for fame, with contestants evaluated weekly by judges David Bisbal, Ana Bárbara, and Ximena Sariñana. Viewers can watch the show live or via the Telemundo app, with episodes available on Peacock the following day.
Community'Recipe for disaster': PETA opposes proposed Donna pet surrender fee
DONNA, Texas (ValleyCentral) — The City of Donna is considering an ordinance that would require pet owners to pay a fee when surrendering animals to the city's animal shelter, a proposal that has sparked debate among residents and animal welfare advocates. Supporters say the fee could help cover the costs of caring for animals at