Austin grandmother raising 11-year-old seeks car repairs

This time of year is not easy for Gloria Villeda. The 72-year-old, who is raising her 11-year-old grandson, said the holiday season reminds her of the people she has loved and lost.

She puts on a brave face for her grandson, but the family has faced unexpected challenges since Thanksgiving that continue to test her strength.

For one, Sebastian came down with a fever and virus, which kept him home from school for a few days. Villeda stayed by his side in their apartment until he recovered and felt well enough to return to school, and to start painting again. She bought him paints and a canvas, and Sebastian quickly turned the blank slate into a mountain landscape. 

Showing a photo of the painting on her phone, Villeda beamed with pride.

Another pain point is Villeda’s car, which is still in need of repairs ahead of a Christmas trip to Killeen to visit family. Her 2015 Nissan Versa likely needs new shocks, she said, and she’s been trying to save for an oil change, but money is tight.

The Villeda family is one of 12 families featured in the Statesman’s Season for Caring program, which highlights the needs of people in our community and raises funds to help these families as well as hundreds of others through local nonprofits. The family was nominated by the SAFE Alliance. 

More than anything, Villeda said she wants to provide Sebastian with the holiday magic he deserves. Gloria’s son is Sebastian’s biological father, but neither of the boy’s 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 is asking for Lego sets, movie theater passes, art supplies including Model Magic clay, felts and pip cleaners, as well as shoes and clothing gift cards. One day, Villeda would also like to take him to Disney World. 

The Statesman is sharing the stories of all 12 Season for Caring families through Jan. 31. Donations will be matched up to $500,000 by Brian Sheth. Find more stories at statesman.com/seasonforcaring. 

You can donate online or use the coupon on Page 2B and mail it to Austin Community Foundation, c/o Statesman Season for Caring, 4315 Guadalupe St., Suite 300, Austin, TX 78751. Make checks payable to “Statesman Season for Caring.”