A Heartfelt Journey of Team Member Advocacy: United We Care’s Christmas Blessings Program
At the heart of every successful organization lies a commitment to the well-being of its team members. United We Care is a group that champions team members’ well-being by fostering a community where support extends far beyond the grocery store.
Founded in 2007, United We Care boasts a dedicated board of 20 team members with a common mission: to positively impact the lives of team members in need. This special program is proudly guided by Kristi Gonzales, United We Care program manager, Team Member Advocate, and Resource Specialist.
At the core of the program’s success is the weekly contribution initiative, where team members generously contribute from their weekly paychecks. This collective effort forms a financial safety net, ready to deploy during times of crisis. It embodies the principle that a unified team can weather any storm together.
As they do each holiday season, the United We Care board brought joy to team members with the annual Christmas Blessings program. Each year, 60 team members across the company receive a $500 Christmas Blessing, 10 in each region. In the first three years of the Christmas Blessings program, United We Care has provided 180 team members with blessings accounting for $90,000! This is a testament to the program’s commitment to providing tangible support during the holiday season. But what sets this program apart is the nomination process. Team members nominate their colleagues, creating a circle of care and support within our communities.
“This is one of my favorite times of the year,” said Kristi Gonzales. “Our Christmas Blessings Program gives team members the opportunity to show each other kindness, gratitude, and love during a tough time of year for some. Being able to distribute the Christmas Blessings can be emotional, but it is so humbling and rewarding. To know that we are making a positive impact on team members’ lives is truly a priceless reward and that’s why this is one of my favorite parts of my job.”
Pictured above is United Family team member Robbyn Owen and her colleagues from store #537 in Lubbock as the United We Care board members deliver her Christmas Blessing. This year, Robbyn was nominated to receive a Christmas Blessing because “she does so much for our store,” said one team member. Another mentioned, “she is a very hard worker and she deserves a little something extra this holiday season.”
United We Care stands not just as a financial lifeline but as a beacon of solidarity, reminding us all that in unity, we find strength, and through care, we create a workplace where everyone can thrive.
If team members are interested in giving back to their colleagues, reach out to Kristi Gonzales to learn how to participate. kgonzales@unitedtexas.com
