CORPUS CHRISTI, TEXAS — U.S. Army veteran Lino Rivas had no idea what to expect when he called the Veterans In Focus hotline shortly after his fence was destroyed.
Once again, a grateful community found a way to help someone who served.
“I’m at a loss for words because people came through,” said Rivas.
Rivas is whole again, or at least his fence is. Two weeks ago, a hit and run driver crashed through his fence in the middle of the night. Acontractor saw Rivas’ story and reached out to help. One of the contractor’s next calls was to his friend Wally Hernandez at Armstrong Lumber.
“That’s where we got everything rolling,”said Hernandez. “He gave me a list of materials they thought were going to be needed.”
Armstrong Lumber then donated all the materials.
“It’s the right thing to do, it’s a great way to start the year,” said Hernandez.
Wednesday, a crew hired by the contractor, rebuilt Rivas’ fence.
“He put his time in to help us for our freedom, and everything he’s done for our country, so we’re here to help him out,” said Hernandez.
“I believe in angels and God sent me an angel that day, and God is going to reward him.,” added Rivas.
Living on a fixed income Rivas couldn’t afford to fix his fence, tthat’s why he was amazed to see it in one piece again.
“People of Corpus, I believe, are used to hard times, and somehow they dig deep in their pockets and make things happen,” said Rivas.
The contractor didn’t want publicity for his gesture, but Rivas knows who he is, and will always be grateful.
“A lot of people want recognition for their work,” said Rivas. “This man was so humble, and it touched my heart.”
There have still been no arrests made or citations issued in the case. Corpus Christi police say they know who the vehicle's owner is.., but says the owner wasn't driving at the time. The department is still investigating.
