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The Port Arthur News and The Rotary Club of Port Arthur return to host its Holly Days fundraiser for its 36th year. 

Donations are now open until early January. The fundraiser seeks to raise money for multiple Port Arthur and Southeast Texas non-profit organizations. 

Previous receiving organizations include The Salvation Army — Mid & South Jefferson County Chapter, The Hospitality Center of Port Arthur, operated by Catholic Charities, Community Care Prayer Outreach and many others.

2025 Funding recipients will be chosen at a later date.

All money donated will be distributed on Feb. 22 at the Taste of Gumbo also held by The Rotary Club of Port Arthur.

“A lot of times, organizations are giving away food, resources to the community for the holidays, so then by January February they start from scratch again,” said Jesus Acosta, President of the Rotary Club of Port Arthur. “So that’s the reason why those funds are distributed in Feb so we can get these organizations back on their feet and start helping out the community.”

 The Rotary Club of Port Arthur continues to promote these ideals with Holly Days. The original idea came from the late Ray Depwe had an idea of creating a fundraiser. He brought the idea to two fellow Rotarians, Former Port Arthur News Editor Dub Brown and Retail Merchants Association Director Floyd Marceaux. Since then the club has continued to host this effort to aid the community.

“We’re excited to team up with the Rotary Club again for Holly Days,” said Pili Linares, General Manager of the Port Arthur News. “This event is such a great way to spread holiday cheer and help local families. We’re proud to be part of something that makes a real difference in our community.”

Holly Days has raised over $330,000 dollars since 1988 to assist local families in need.

Any donation to Holly Days is tax deductible, through the Port Arthur Rotary Foundation, make your contribution before Dec. 31 to take advantage of this donation for this year.

All donations can be mailed to the Rotary Club of Port Arthur P.O. Box 77 Port Arthur, Texas 77641.