Houston’s ‘Pancho Claus’ Richard Reyes Seeks Community Support Amid Health Challenges, Vows to Deliver 20,000 Toys

For the 73rd year, Richard Reyes, who Houston residents know as Pancho Claus, has been providing holiday cheer to kids with life-threatening heart conditions. According to Click2Houston, after having his third heart attack, he remains committed to delivering on his pledge to give out 20,000 gifts this Christmas season.

In the Memorial Herman hospital, Reyes, dressed in his signature red zoot suit, spoke about his unwavering commitment to his charitable work and urged the Houston community to support the Pancho Claus tradition. He mentioned in a recent Facebook post that his fundraising efforts began with an alarming $90 raised in the first week, and that GoFundMe and other payment options were available to those who were willing to contribute.

According to aKHOU 11 Newsreport, Reyes uses his current state of vulnerability—which includes fighting high blood pressure, low blood sugar, and a rapid heartbeat—to transfer control of his Christmas mission to his community while he is still in the hospital, with surgery set for tomorrow.

Reyes acknowledged his mortality and the reality of his situation when he told KHOU 11 News, “This is my third heart attack, so I’m kind of used to the symptoms, I knew what it was.” Despite this, he remains determined to spread joy, calling on volunteers and emphasizing that the community as a whole is truly Pancho Claus.

The GoFundMe Campaign, Cash App at $panchoclause, Zelle at [email protected], PayPal to 7132080606, and checks made payable to ‘Pancho Claus Arts’ at Casa Ramirez, 241 West 19th St., Houston, Texas 77008 are all ways to contribute to Reyes’ cause.

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