A holiday project in Bay City has blossomed into a lifeline for dozens of families across Matagorda County. The Bay City Junior Service League’s Angel Tree program, which started in ’21 helping 35 children, now supports 74 kids from Bay City, Van Vleck, and Tidehaven ISDs. The initiative works with school counselors to identify children in need, keeping their identities anonymous while gathering clothing, shoes, and gifts for Christmas. Organizers hope the program continues to grow, but they stress that local support is vital.