Houstonians' donations, good deeds spread holiday cheers across Bayou City

HOUSTON (KTRK) -- Lia Johnson is a giver. She, her husband Patrick, their children, and friends from United Cheer are spending part of their holiday helping others.

"We hit the streets," she said, "to give not only blankets but food and toys to the homeless each year."

They are delivering more than 700 blankets to the homeless. It is something they say they are compelled to do.

"A couple of years ago, we went out to feed the homeless," she explained, "and there was a little girl who asked for a blanket. I didn't have one. And she cried and I cried and I said it'll never happen again."

While they are on their mission, Robert Goins is on his. For 19 years he has helped the Citywide Club of Houston feed the homeless in the hungry during the holidays.

"It is just a way that we can give back to the city. We live in such a great place here in Houston, Texas. It's a beautiful thing to help someone else who could use a helping hand," Goins said.

There are not enough. Goins says this year the Citywide Club needs hundreds more to help take care of the 25,000 people they will feed and aid on Wednesday.

"We wouldn't be able to be as successful as we are without the help of Houstonians," said City Club's Stephanie Lewis. "We say thank you on behalf of the many thousands who will benefit from their generosity."

It is called the season of giving. A colloquialism people like Goins the Johnsons take to heart.

To volunteer go to citywideclub.com.