The United Way Board of Directors recognized Hidalgo County as a “Top 10” Company at a Hidalgo County Commissioner’s Court Meeting. Commissioner Eddie Cantu, Precinct 2, has served as the County’s Campaign Chair for over six years, with tremendous support from Judge Richard Cortez and all countywide Commissioners. Ms. Joni Vicinaiz, Precinct 2 and Jaime Salazar, Hidalgo County Drainage District #1, were the volunteer Employee Campaign Coordinators and were honored as the 2026 Company Coordinator of the Year and Loaned Executive of the Year, respectively. Their commitment and dedication resulted in the most successful Campaigns ever run at the County.
“We are truly honored and humbled to be recognized among the Top 10 companies for giving to the United Way. Supporting the United Way is especially meaningful to us because it reflects our commitment to giving back and making a positive difference in the lives of individuals and families throughout our community,” said Raul Sesin, Drainage District #1.
Department Directors, including Irma Pena, Hidalgo County Head Start Program, Clarissa Ramirez, WIC Program and Oscar R. Villarreal, Facilities Management were instrumental in helping to inform co-workers about many of the critical services that are provided by United Way programs and partner agencies. Hidalgo County Commissioners and employees, Precincts 1-4, also volunteer as Shopping Buddies for 175 middle school students at United Way’s Back-to-School “In Style” Shopping Spree. Counselors select eligible students to participate in the Shopping Spree, who receive school attire, personal hygiene items, school supplies and haircuts.
“I am very proud of the employees of Hidalgo County who are always so giving and supportive of United Way that turns around and supports some of the best and most important nonprofits in the area,” Commissioner Cantu said. “God continues to bless us every day.”
The generous donations from Hidalgo County employees helped more than 220,000 residents in Hidalgo & Starr Counties in 2025.
United Way funds programs that include emergency shelter for victims of domestic violence and for the homeless; after school, youth leadership and homework assistance programs for children; end-of-life care services; advocates for children in foster care; free income tax preparation services for families who earn $67,000 a year or less; assistance for families affected by natural disasters and single home fires, and much more.
The United Way Board of Directors extends their deepest appreciation to all Hidalgo County employees for their continued support and commitment to making meaningful investments that empower families to become self-sufficient.
About United Way:
United Way of South Texas invests in programs that address critical services in the areas of Youth Opportunities, Healthy Communities, Financial Security, and Community Resiliency. The organization supports over 21 non-profit agencies in Hidalgo and Starr Counties that serve a minimum of 220,000 local residents annually. Services provided by United Way of South Texas through Partner Agencies include emergency shelter, family violence counseling, character building programs, child victim advocacy, and infant stimulation classes. To learn more, visit www.unitedwayofsotx.org. If you would like to support United Way programs with a monetary donation, you may mail a tax deductible check to United Way of South Texas at P.O. Box 187, McAllen, TX 78505-0187 or pledge online at https://unitedwayofsotx.org/donate-now/. For volunteer opportunities, visit volunteersotx.org.