Sam Houston Electric Cooperative employees live in the communities they serve, and each year they find new opportunities to support those in need.
Concern for Community is a Cooperative Principle, and during the 2025 holiday season, the Co-op partnered with local organizations to give back.
In the fall, a committee led by Sam Houston EC employees partnered with Center of Hope in Polk County with a goal of donating 20 Thanksgiving meals to local families. They exceeded their goal and delivered 25 meals. “The meals included many standard Thanksgiving menu items, all packaged into a laundry basket,” said Nacole Walker, human resource specialist. Several families in San Jacinto County also received meals.
Co-op employees also partnered with FAITH Military Support Group to sign cards and bundle care packages for local military serving away from their families during the holiday season.
As in years past, Co-op employees supported families in need ahead of Christmas. “We partnered with Coldspring-Oakhurst [Independent School District], and they helped identify two families in need of support for the holidays,” said Jeri Gardner, member service representative. “Then we adopted an elderly gentleman, who did not have any remaining family.”
Other departments worked together to support local families through the Tyler County Angel Tree program and Colmesneil Friends of Kids. “Everyone at the Woodville branch participated by purchasing gifts on the Angel Tree children’s lists for Christmas,” said DeAndre Harper, member service representative.
Livingston office employees donated $1,400 to provide a merrier Christmas for two families in need through the Polk County Empty Stocking Program.
The Cooperative also donated several bicycles to the town of Goodrich as part of the Goodrich Christmas Market and Lighted Parade. The bikes were handed out to children during the parade. “A total of six bikes and helmets were donated to the town of Goodrich,” said Noemi Montoya, communications specialist. “The season is all about gratitude, spreading joy and giving back to the communities we live in and are proud to serve.”
