As part of our commitment to give back to the community, Unique donated more than $17, 000 to three charitable organizations here in the Coastal Bend through its Blue Jean Friday initiative.

Organizations receiving donations were New Life Refuge, CASA of the Coastal Bend, and Corpus Christi Metro Ministries.

Like the idea of Casual Day, through Unique’s Blue Jean Friday program, employees have the option to donate $1 every pay period in exchange for being able to wear jeans at the end of the week.

At the end of the year, participating employee donations are matched by President / CEO Garry Bradford and Senior Vice President Chris Bradford and donated to three selected local charitable organizations.

Here is a little about each charitable organization:

New Life Refuge

New Life Refuge’s vision focuses on eliminating child sex trafficking. The Organization aims to provide a refuge of hope and healing for child survivors of sex trafficking. Their Refuge Campus allows victims of sex trafficking to process trauma, heal and transition into healthy lifestyles. New Life also takes initiative by providing education to the community on the issue for awareness and prevention. They also establish partnerships with local, state, and federal agencies and many community leaders in education, faith, and business. In all, they have educated, helped, and trained thousands.

Website: Home – New Life Refuge Ministries

Phone Number: 361-946-6331

Address: PO Box 9157, Corpus Christi, TX 78469

CASA of the Coastal Bend

CASA, or Court Appointed Special Advocates, is to advocate for the best interests of children in Nueces and Aransas County Foster Care. Their court-appointed CASAs are trained and evaluate the needs of the children. Those volunteers collaborate with families and associated professionals to provide judges with valuable information. CASAs work with children coming from hard places and neglect and help with the healing process as well as making sure every child’s voice is heard in court. CASA currently has 128 volunteers that serve nearly 450 children in care.

Website: CASA of the Coastal Bend – Help Children, Volunteer (coastalbendcasa.org)

Phone Number: 361-884-2272

Address: 2602 Prescott, Corpus Christi, TX 78404

Corpus Christi Metro Ministries

CC Metro Ministries aims to help transform the lives of thousands of individuals and families in the Coastal Bend. They help feed shelter and build better futures for the hundreds of chronically homeless and working poor each week. Their efforts include a 10,000-square-foot facility that serves as a home for the Loaves and Fishes free cafeteria and Rainbow House for women and children. They also provide access to volunteer doctors, social services, and a transitional housing program.

Website: Corpus Christi Metro Ministries (ccmetro.org)

Phone Number: 361-887-0151

Address: 1919 Leopard St., Corpus Christi, TX 78408