Family Service was delighted to be back in person for the annual WinterFest event in partnership with Alamo Quarry Market.

This free, family-friendly event is the perfect kick off to the holiday season. Families joined Santa under a flurry of snow for the annual lighting of the smokestacks while enjoying live performances, activities, and tasty treats.

The event spreads more winter cheer than just glistening snowflakes. WinterFest brought our community together with a toy drive in support of Family Service’s Annual Adopt-A-Family Holiday Drive. We received books, toys, and gifts that will go directly to the individuals and families that we serve, ensuring a bright holiday season for all.

“Alamo Quarry Market has partnered with Family Service for the past 17 years. We are proud to help support this organization as they assist with an array of services to support those in need throughout the City of San Antonio.” – Priscilla Gonzaba, Senior Property Manager for Alamo Quarry Market.

We were lead through the evening by KSAT-TV’s Stephanie Serna and Mike Osterage, who engaged children and families of all ages in the festivities. In an exciting announcement from Rey Feo 73, Augie Cortez, we learned the Rey Feo Scholarship Foundation would be adopting ten Family Service families this holiday season! Visit reyfeo73.org to learn more about the important work of the Rey Feo Scholarship Foundation.

This year, Winterfest was pleased to partner with disABILITYsa to make the Winterfest experience more inclusive for everyone. The disABILITYsa team incorporated their Sensory De-Escalation Room, Universal Changing Place, and Adaptive Crafting tools which enable individuals living with disabilities to more fully engage in community experiences.

Thank you to our community partners who made this event special.

Thank you to Alamo Quarry Market and their tenants Corner Bakery, Regal 16-Plex Cinemas, Amy’s Ice Cream, and Office Max for providing cookies, ice cream, popcorn, and crafts. A special thank you to Whole Earth Provisions and Learning Express for continuing the toy drive within their stores throughout the month of December.

Thank you to Providence Middle School’s choir and theater arts program for the wonderful performances.

Thank you to BiblioTech West for spreading the word about digital library resources. Visit bexarbibliotech.org to learn more about their work bridging literacy and technology gaps in San Antonio and surrounding areas.

Thank you to the St. Mary’s University and Texas A&M of San Antonio student volunteers for taking the time to volunteer and give back to our community.