By Director of the Southwest Region of Colorado’s Migrant Education Program Esmerelda Martinez
As the holiday season ends, the Southwest Region of Colorado’s Migrant Education Program (MEP) is filled with gratitude and pride as we reflect on the generosity and community spirit that made this season truly special. Year after year, individuals, businesses, and organizations come together to support migrant students and their families, reminding us of all of the power of compassion—especially during the Christmas season.
Thanks to the incredible kindness of our local sponsors and donors, this year MEP was able to bring extra cheer, comfort, and hope to over 50 families. From holiday gifts to warm meals and meaningful community connections, your support helped ensure that families experienced more than just the essentials. You helped create moments of joy, belonging, and celebration.
For many migrant families, the holidays can be especially challenging. Long work hours, limited access to resources, and the realities of frequent relocation often make it difficult to celebrate or spend time with extended family. Some families are separated from loved ones during this season, making the sense of isolation even greater. Your generosity helped bridge that gap, providing not only material support but also reassurance that these families are seen, valued, and supported by their community.
The impact of your giving goes far beyond a single season. The smiles, laughter, and memories created during this holiday period will be cherished long after the decorations are put away. On behalf of the Southwest Region MEP, our students, and their families, thank you for helping make the holidays brighter and for standing alongside us in supporting migrant families throughout the year.
2025 Sponsors:
Valley-Wide Health Systems
Physical Therapy Department
Justin Hanel’s Family
Krista’s Team
Ed Medina
Nurse Family Partnership
ELT
SBMC, Rock Creek & CSC
Heather Smith’s Family
Kaylee Chavez’ Family
Jordan Ricard’s Family
Carolyn Davis
Larry Helms
Lauren Sondorreger
Andrew Russell
Kristina Daniel
Colorado Housing & Finance Authority
Department of Social Services
Renae Haslett-Extended Studies
City of Alamosa
Anna Lee Vargas-SLV
Carol Gurule
SLV Immigration Resource Center
Weiss Dry Cleaners
Genna Thompson and Daughter
Sagebrush Dental Co.
Tammy Brubachere-Alamosa Police Department
SLV Immigrant Partnership Team-Valerie
Sacred Heart Church
Walmart-Justin
Alamosa Democratic Party-Beth Kinney
Babelicious Gourmet Coffee
Cisco NJ Construction LLC
Walter Roybal
Monte Vista Coop
Adams State University Foundation
Potato Donation, Farm Fresh, Rodney Smith
San Luis Valley Federal Bank
Cheryl McCann-Valley Wide
Emelin Martinez-Valley Wide
Alamosa School District Admin Office
High Altitude Convenience
Post Commissary
Alamosa Elementary 3-5 Bldg.
El Pomar Foundation
Ent Credit Union
As we look ahead to the new year, we are inspired by the opportunities before us to continue uplifting and supporting migrant students and families throughout our region. Your generous donations make it possible for us to provide vital educational support, enrichment opportunities, and family services all year long, helping students succeed both in and beyond the classroom.
We invite anyone who would like to contribute, partner with us, or get involved to reach out and join our mission. Together, we can continue building strong connections and make the next holiday season, and every season, even brighter for our migrant families.
We wish you a happy and hopeful New Year. Thank you for helping us bring light, care, and opportunity to those who need it most.
With heartfelt thanks,
The Colorado Southwest Region Migrant Education Program
For more information on supporting the Migrant Education Program, or to become a sponsor or donor for next year’s holiday season, please contact us at MEP@adams.edu 719-587-7612.


