Austin Grandmother Seeks Help for Car Repairs and Holiday Magic

Gloria Villeda, a 72-year-old grandmother, is raising her 11-year-old grandson, Sebastian, in an Austin apartment. The holiday season is particularly challenging for her, as it reminds her of lost loved ones. Despite putting on a brave face for Sebastian, the family has faced recent hardships, including Sebastian falling ill with a fever and virus, which kept him home from school. Villeda stayed by his side until he recovered and returned to painting, a hobby she supports by providing him with paints and canvas.

Another pressing issue is Villeda's 2015 Nissan Versa, which requires repairs, including new shocks and an oil change, ahead of a planned Christmas trip to Killeen to visit family. Financial constraints have made saving for these repairs difficult.

The Villeda family is one of 12 featured in the Statesman's Season for Caring program, which raises funds for families in need through local nonprofits. They were nominated by the SAFE Alliance. Villeda's primary wish is to provide Sebastian with a magical Christmas, as neither of his parents are involved in his life.

"All I want for Christmas, really, is for him to be happy and for me to be able to supply whatever he needs," Villeda said.

She hopes for Lego sets, movie theater passes, art supplies like Model Magic clay, felts, and pipe cleaners, as well as shoes and clothing gift cards. A future dream is to take Sebastian to Disney World.

To support the family or donate items from their wish list, contact SAFE Alliance at 512-356-1563 or visit safeaustin.org.

Donations to the Season for Caring program can be made online or mailed to Austin Community Foundation, c/o Statesman Season for Caring, 4315 Guadalupe St., Suite 300, Austin, TX 78751, with checks payable to "Statesman Season for Caring." Donations will be matched up to $500,000 by Brian Sheth.