By TRINA “INDI” JOHNSON
Special to the NEWS
A funeral home might not be the first place that comes to mind when picturing a back-to-school celebration. Still, on August 8, families will gather at Funeraria Del Angel Mont Meta, located at 26170 State Highway 345, San Benito, for a different kind of community send-off, one filled with backpacks, snacks, and a message of support.
“At Funeraria Del Angel Mont Meta and Service Corporation International (SCI), we value our community,” said Daniel Roberto Gomez, location manager. “We understand that community service is more than just what we do as a business. As a father and community member, I know how stressful the back-to-school season can be for families.”
Now in its third year, the giveaway has grown from a small offering to a crowd-drawing tradition. One hundred backpacks will be handed out, each filled with notebooks, pencils, hygiene products, and care. Children will also receive juice pouches, cookies, and chips as part of the event, which begins at 5:30 p.m.
“The idea of donating backpacks came from a desire to provide basic support to families while sending a message to the community that we care about their daily lives, not just during difficult moments,” Gomez said. “We host these events on most major holidays to give back to our community. We are here to serve in every season.”
The effort is part of the funeral home’s broader mission to serve with compassion, dignity, and care. Gomez said supporting local children is just as important as caring for grieving families. “My team sees this as another way to walk alongside our community, not only to grieve, but in preparation and ongoing hope.”
Funded through internal contributions and support from SCI, the event remains free for families. In past years, local businesses have stepped in with extras, including free haircuts from volunteer barbers.
Gomez expressed that the most meaningful reward is gratitude and understanding. “For us, smiles mean everything. They represent one of the most joyful moments of feeling supported. Often, it’s the first time a family sees that we are more than just a funeral home — we are neighbors and community members who genuinely care.”
Over time, attendance has grown, and the need, Gomez said, has become more apparent. So has the community’s trust. “Events like this help tear down walls and skepticism. People sometimes have misconceptions about funeral homes. We are not just about caring for the grieving or about dealing with death. These events help us break those stereotypes. We value being part of the community where we cherish life and unity.”
Though backpacks may be the tangible takeaway, Gomez said the deeper goal is a lasting connection. “We want to build more trust, strengthen relationships, and remind families that Mont Meta is here for them. Not just in the difficult times, but in joyful times and everything in between.”
Funeraria Del Angel Mont Meta welcomes future support from local partners, whether through donated supplies, volunteer time, or simply helping spread the word. “Local businesses have a real opportunity to show their value through events like this, and we are always happy to collaborate to make an even greater difference.”
Plans to expand the event are already being considered. Gomez hopes future seasons will bring more supplies, more partners, and more reasons for families to smile.
For more information, contact Funeraria Del Angel Mont Meta at (956) 399-3097.
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