Have you been dreaming of cooler temperatures, yearning for the holiday season that requires more scarves and sweaters than it does sunscreen and sandals? The Christmas season will be here before we know it, and now is a great time to prepare! Celebrate the Christmas in July spirit by getting a head start on supporting the GRACE Christmas Cottage! Every year, through generous donations from supporters like you, GRACE is able to provide over 2,500 individuals and families with a very merry Christmas at the Christmas Cottage! This program allows qualified individuals and families to use a hypothetical “budget” to “purchase” donated toys, home goods, and appliances in a private, store-like setting. With this unique and important approach, these families are able to practice budgeting while also preserving dignity. It is through this program that so many community members are able to continue traditions, enjoy precious memories together, and have

Summer is officially here, and so are the scorching temperatures! While many are able to benefit from an air conditioning unit or system in their home, many of our neighbors do not have access to a well-working unit, or to one at all! That’s where United Way of Tarrant County comes in, with their Beat the Heat campaign, which kicked off last month on June 21st! This campaign helps serve so many in this area, including GRACE clients.  Last year alone, Tarrant County experienced one or more heat-related deaths each week throughout the summer. The Beat the Heat campaign aims to diminish this devastating statistic by collecting air conditioning units to help older adults and individuals with disabilities who may not otherwise have access to one. This year, in honor of United Way of Tarrant County’s 100 year anniversary, they’re hoping to collect 100 units! Of the units collected, GRACE

Last month on June 6, AJ’s on Main held their 2nd annual Music Fest Fundraiser, benefitting the GRACE Food Pantry! This super fun event featured live music, a raffle and auction, and of course – great food and drinks from AJ’s! A main street Grapevine staple for over 10 years, AJ’s generously chose to donate proceeds from this event to GRACE.  As a United States Air Force and local police retiree, AJ Gillinger definitely has a passion for serving his community and giving back. One of the ways he accomplished this is through one very fun tradition. When you step into AJ’s on Main, you’ll notice dollar bills stapled to the ceiling left by guests that have enjoyed visiting the restaurant and bar for many years. So, AJ decided to collect all of the money that had been left and donate it to GRACE!   Everyone, including members of GRACE