BEARing Gifts Brings Holiday Hope to Houston’s Most Vulnerable Kids
For many Houston families, the holiday season means lights, laughter, and a living room slowly filling with wrapped surprises. But for thousands of children in at-risk situations—or those involved with the CPS system—this time of year can feel painfully different.
That’s where BEAR…BE A Resource steps in.
Houston City Beat visited BEAR’s corporate office and saw firsthand how this Houston-based nonprofit is turning community compassion into something tangible: brand-new holiday gifts for children who might otherwise go without.
Between the sorting, wrapping, and last-minute preparations, we spoke with Executive Director Tammy Hetmaniak and board member Kelly Simon about the mission behind BEARing Gifts—and how the Houston community can sponsor, donate, and volunteer to make the holidays brighter for kids who need it most.
Meet BEAR…BE A Resource
BEAR…BE A Resource is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to improving the lives of at-risk and CPS-involved children and their caretakers in the greater Houston area. Their mission is simple, but powerful: provide hope and help—especially when kids need it most.
And during the holidays, that mission comes to life through one of their most meaningful efforts of the year.
What Is BEARing Gifts?
BEARing Gifts is BEAR’s holiday program that provides new holiday gifts to children across the Houston area. The goal is more than toys—it’s the joy, dignity, and “someone thought about me” feeling that every child deserves.
Last holiday season, BEAR says the program served more than 29,000 children, made possible by donors, volunteers, and community partners across Houston.
Whether someone donated a single toy or funded gifts for dozens of children, the impact was the same: a child smiling during the holidays.
Inside the Warehouse: A Community in Motion
When Houston City Beat visited BEAR’s warehouse this past week, the energy was undeniable. Volunteers were busy “shopping” the warehouse—pulling items from shelves and carefully fulfilling wish lists so that each child receives gifts chosen specifically for them.
It’s one thing to hear the numbers. It’s another to watch a team of everyday Houstonians move with purpose—sorting, selecting, checking lists twice, and making sure each child’s holiday feels personal.
It was inspiring to see just how many people across the Houston area are showing up for kids who need support right now.
Five Ways You Can Help BEAR This Holiday Season
BEAR makes it easy to jump in, whether you’re an individual, a family, or a business looking to give back. Here are five ways to get involved:
Sponsor a child (or children)
Host a toy drive
Donate monetarily
Shop BEAR’s Amazon wishlist
Volunteer your time
Every action counts. Every gift matters. And every volunteer shift helps BEAR reach one more child.
The Bottom Line
Houston has a huge heart—and BEAR is proof of what happens when that heart turns into action.
If you’ve been looking for a way to make the season brighter for someone who truly needs it, BEARing Gifts is a meaningful place to start. Because the holidays aren’t just about what we celebrate—they’re about who we include.
Where to find BEAR…BE A Resource (Houston)
Website: https://bearesourcehouston.org
Phone: 713-274-9850
Office: 3572 E TC Jester Blvd, Houston, TX 77018
