Hope wrapped in a Christmas tree

Tears of joy rolled down Maria’s face, as she touched one of the glittery ornaments on her new Christmas tree. Maria, a client at Methodist Healthcare Ministries’ Wesley Health & Wellness Center, is one of the sixty-five individuals and families who received a beautifully decorated tree at Methodist Healthcare Ministries Annual Christmas tree giveaway event on Dec. 14.

“It’s been a hard year and I know we’re not supposed to lose hope. I had lost the spirit of Christmas,” said Maria. “Just seeing the Christmas tree decorated has helped give me hope. I know that God provides. It’s a gift.”

For the past six years, Methodist Healthcare Ministries has partnered with Methodist Healthcare System for this event. This year, Methodist Hospital and Methodist Children's Hospital decorated dozens of 6-foot Christmas trees with fun and sparkly ornaments and displayed them at the beginning of the holiday season. After hospital patients had the chance to enjoy them, the trees were packed up and shipped to Methodist Healthcare Ministries’ Wesley Health & Wellness Center, where they were displayed in a winter wonderland themed setting.

“It’s very emotional and overwhelming to see the faces of our clients, as they are given a Christmas tree. I feel blessed that we can do this for them,” said Margie Rodriguez, one of the family wellness program specialists with Methodist Healthcare Ministries. “It means a lot to them because these families would not have a Christmas tree in their home if we didn’t give them one. It’s a wonderful feeling.”

Helen Rodriguez, a volunteer at Methodist Healthcare Ministries’ Wesley Health & Wellness Center, agrees. “It feels so good to be able to give to others when they need it,” she said. “That’s what I love about this place. Everyone is so giving and caring. And, people need to feel supported.”

Methodist Healthcare Ministries’ Wesley Café also served hot chocolate, cookies, and filled the room with holiday music to help make the day extra special for the least served in our community.

In addition, San Antonio Spurs guard Marco Belinelli and the Spurs Coyote, stopped by to help spread some extra holiday cheer, as well as pose with families for photos.

“I feel very blessed today and I’m very grateful to those who donated these beautiful trees. They are so beautiful. I love mine,” smiled Maria, as she prepared to take her tree home.

CLICK HERE to see Christmas tree giveaway event.