Sharing Joy on the Border
WMU Border Ministries Christmas Outreach
Partner with WMU of Texas Border Ministries to provide Christmas gifts to families facing economic hardship. Every gift delivers tangible care and shares the love of Jesus.
Across communities bordering the Rio Grande, many families navigate severe financial strain and isolated economic conditions.
For parents struggling to cover daily necessities, purchasing holiday gifts or educational materials creates an overwhelming burden.
WMU of Texas Border Ministries established the "Sharing Joy on the Border" Christmas Outreach to bridge this gap, and share the hope of Jesus.
Operating year-round across the entire expanse of the Texas/Mexico border, under the direction of Missionary Vanessa Lerma, WMU Border Ministries works directly through local churches and community leaders to serve vulnerable populations.
Through distribution events like "Sharing The Joy," volunteers can not only meet physical needs, but also offer a message of eternal hope.
Gift Needs
Donation Deadline: December 14, 2026
To ensure every child, from toddlers to teenagers, receives a gift, WMU of Texas Border Ministries has created an Amazon Wish List.
While donations for all age groups are welcome, past toy drives show that pre-teens and teenagers (ages 12-16) are often underrepresented.
Please refer to the donation list below to help ensure every child receives a gift under the tree this year.
- Girl and Boy Toys (all ages, preferred 12-16 yrs)
- Sport Balls (Soccer, basketball, volleyball, football, etc.)
- Bibles & Devotionals
- Arts & Crafts
- Board Games & Puzzles
How To Donate
Option 1
Online Shopping via Amazon Wish List
1: Visit the Amazon Wish List before Dec. 14
2: Select desired toys from the curated list.
3: Choose the designated shipping address at checkout (WMU of Texas Border Ministries)
4: Complete the purchase. Items are shipped automatically to WMU Missionary Vanessa Lerma.
Option 2
Direct Shipping & Mail-In
Individuals, churches, and WMU groups purchasing items locally should package new, unwrapped items securely and ship them to the designated border address below:
WMU of Texas
Attn: Vanessa Lerma
601 Kendlewood Ave.
McAllen, Texas 78501
Volunteer & Prayer Opportunities
Distribution Dates: December 15-21, 2026
Physical gifts are only one part of the outreach. Volunteers assemble, sort, and distribute gifts directly to families through block parties, church gatherings, and home visits across border towns. Activities include:
- Sorting toys by age group, and packing custom Compassion Bags
- Leading children's games, crafts, and gospel-centered activities
- Engaging in evangelism, prayer ministry, and Gospel distribution
To register a volunteer team or individual, contact WMU of Texas Border Missionary Vanessa Lerma by completing the Interest Form below. You may also email vanessa.wmutx[at]txb.org or call (956) 279-5515.