This past weekend we took 21 youth in foster care to the coast in Port Aransas for a weekend of fishing and fun in the sun! Our team went down on Thursday to get everything ready, and on Friday the fun began with the youth. 

 

We first met this year’s group at the original Whataburger in Corpus Christi. After lunch, we took them to tour Texas A&M at Corpus Christi where they learned about their special living accommodations for youth in foster care. The University even had a foster care alumni who is currently in the program talk to the youth about what they could expect. She told them that there’s nothing to fear about extended foster care, and that it’s an easier transition because you have support. 

 

Finally, we arrived in Port A where everyone checked into their houses! In their rooms, we had set up beach totes filled with goodies, fishing shirts, and hats ready for each kiddo. The hats and shirts were extra special because they came from one of our fishing captain’s company – Keith Carnes with Red Ninja Outdoors. 

 

During dinner, the youth were able to visit with their fishing captains anticipating fishing together in the morning. However, a storm during the evening postponed the original fishing plans for Saturday morning due to rough waters. Our team quickly pivoted and brought the youth to the Texas State Aquarium (which graciously donated entrance fees for us!). We also took the youth souvenir shopping and we also had a generous island-goer donate funds so they could all get a full bag of candy from Winston’s Island Candy Store – who also provided a discount to our group! 

 

Later that evening, the Sunflower Beach Resort opened its pools to allow us to host a pool party for the youth! They ended the day with a short walk to the beach hanging with each other and enjoying the serenity.

 

Finally, on Sunday we all woke up early and set sail to go on a short fishing trip with all of our amazing captains. While there were a few unexpected twists and turns this was definitely a trip to Port A to remember! 

 

Thank you to our sponsors, volunteers, and especially our captains and staff who made this weekend possible for this incredible group of kids.