RUSK, Texas — A small nonprofit in East Texas is trying to make a big difference this holiday season with its annual holiday campaign.
Pier 22 Fishing is a nonprofit that helps veterans with PTSD and kids by creating positive life experiences through fishing.
This year, Pier 22 Fishing and Feed the People partnered to help four East Texas families in need for their 22 Wishes campaign. Raven Bertrand's family was chosen as one of the "22 Wishes” recipients.
"Words can’t describe. It means a lot. Just because especially for this one, her birthday was last week. And now Christmas is next week, and just knowing that we’re actually going to be able to do something for them, it means the world," Bertrand said.
Pier 22 Fishing president Ryan Silbernagle said the nonprofit has helped many families through the annual 22 Wishes.
"When a family (is) nominated, we look at what their needs are and what else they could be missing. Or you know, do they need help with bills, do they need help with just getting some presents or food, or you know, what is it that they need," Silbernagle said. "And then we accommodate and raise those funds, to make sure those families are taken care of."
Currently, Silbernagle is in the process of collecting gifts for the Bertrand family. He says the plan is for the presents to be delivered to their house this Saturday or Sunday, right before Christmas.
"This is a great opportunity, and I love it. I’ma friendly person and always want to help people. Whenever I see someone in need, I just wanna go over there and help them. It just means a lot to be able to help people, and be part of a community, and build that community," Silbernagle said.
To help Pier 22 Fishing with their 22 Wishes campaign this holiday, visit their website here.