November 22, 2024
Over the last 26 years, Austin American-Statesman readers have donated more than 11 million dollars in cash and in-kind goods and services to benefit the Season for Caring campaign. Each year, local nonprofit organizations nominate Austinites and Austin families for this campaign. Donations raised go to selected recipients, which truly help to make a positive impact on their lives and support them to become self-sufficient.
This year 12 recipients nominated by 12 local nonprofits have been selected. Meals on Wheels Central Texas is ecstatic to announce that one of our very own neighbors is a recipient. Meet this year's MOWCTX Season for Caring recipient, Carlos Vallejo Jr.!
Carlos Vallejo Jr. is a proud Austin native who has called this city home for the last 57 years. He and his two furry companions live in the same East Austin home that Carlos grew up in, which was passed down to him by his late parents. Carlos has always been passionate about making a difference in the world and cares deeply about his city. Upon graduating high school, he enlisted in the army and served for four years. He also dedicated a decade of hard work to his job with the city!
Unfortunately, Carlos' life took a devastating turn in 2018 when he and his close friend were in a tragic boating accident. In this accident, Carlos suffered significant physical injuries including the loss of one arm and one leg. Sadly, his best friend did not survive the accident. Carlos' road to recovery was intensive, but he feels like he's struggling now more than ever.
The everyday tasks that once seemed simple have become more challenging. Support from the Season for Caring campaign will help address his number one need, which is for his home to be repaired and made accessible for him. "Inside the house is all I really ask for," Carlos expresses to the Statesman. "I'm really appreciative of anything," he adds.
The older East Austin home urgently needs roof repairs. The kitchen counters need to be lowered so he can reach them. Additionally, the floors need repairs so he can safely navigate his home on his mobility chair.
Donations will help secure these home repairs and can provide additional support, including helping to purchase essential assistive devices. Carlos would benefit immensely from a wheelchair-accessible vehicle, a newer scooter, and comfortably fitting prosthetics for his right arm and right leg.
Despite the tragedy he experienced, Carlos maintains a positive, hopeful spirit. He is still learning to navigate life after the accident, and he desires to stay engaged in the community. For leisure, Carlos loves fishing at Lady Bird Lake and finds peace by casting a line into the water.
Looking ahead, the support he receives through the Season for Caring campaign and its generous contributors will make a world of difference in the experience he has in his home and in navigating life in general. Give to make a difference in Carlos' life and the lives of many other Austin families and individuals supported by this wonderful campaign.
Donors wishing to contribute to the Austin American-Statesman Campaign can do so by clicking here. Or, email cfr@mealsonwheelscentraltexas.org for more details on how/where to mail in a check. Meals on Wheels Central Texas cannot accept any funds directly for this campaign. Another way you can support Carlos is by purchasing items on his Amazon wish list by clicking here. Donors should use this link to purchase items to be delivered directly to Carlos on their behalf. Watch Carlos' Season for Caring video with the Statesman by clicking here.
As always, Meals on Wheels Central Texas provides care that empowers neighbors by promoting dignity and independence. Learn more about the vast MOWCTX continuum of care supporting older adults and people living with disabilities in the Greater Austin region.
Please note that Season for Caring donations CANNOT be sent directly to Meals on Wheels Central Texas. Please send donations directly to the Statesman Season for Caring campaign. Thank you!
Photo Credit: Jay Janner/ Austin American-Statesman