For the fourth consecutive year, the Christmas Toy Run has brought smiles and holiday cheer to the children of Boquillas del Carmen, a quaint village nestled beside Big Bend National Park on the Rio Grande. This year’s event, masterfully coordinated by Fort Stockton High School teacher Collette Coco Barragan and supported by her diligent students, family, friends, and the vibrant Facebook community of Big Bend National Park, was a resounding success.
The collaborative effort included navigating logistics with the Port of Entry, U.S. Customs, and the Superintendent of Big Bend National Park to ensure a smooth passage of over 150 gifts. These gifts, sourced globally through an Amazon link shared by members of various Facebook groups, including “Big Bend, Texas. Terlingua, Lajitas, Study Butte, Alpine, Marfa, Marathon,” and “Friends of Big Bend National Park,” ensured that every child in Boquillas del Carmen received multiple presents, each thoughtfully wrapped and labeled with their names.
Upon arrival at the Port of Entry, enthusiastic volunteers from Terlingua and surrounding areas were on hand to assist in transporting the gifts across the border. The presents were ferried over the Rio Grande and distributed to the children, creating a festive and memorable atmosphere as each child’s name was joyfully called out.
This heartwarming tradition continues to grow each year, thanks to the generosity and spirit of the community. “It is more blessed to give than to receive,” reflects the sentiment of all those involved in making the toy run a cherished annual event. The success of this initiative showcases the power of community and the joy of giving during the holiday season.
Editor’s Note: Recent regulatory changes by U.S. Customs have sparked concern among tourists and residents. Effective December 20, 2024, no food products—including tamales, restaurant leftovers, alcohol, or vanilla—can be transported north through the Port of Entry. This decision has significant implications for the economy of Boquillas and has been met with disappointment by those frequenting Big Bend National Park and the village.
Photo Credit: Tristan Barragan, whose contributions have captured the essence and impact of the Christmas Toy Run, beautifully chronicling this vibrant community event.
