Registration for CAM’s Merriment at the Ministry Opens October 13: Holiday Assistance Available for Cy-Fair Families in Need
As the holiday season approaches, Cypress Assistance Ministries (CAM) is once again opening its doors—and its heart—to local families in need. Registration for Merriment at the Ministry, CAM’s beloved annual toy and food distribution program, officially opens on October 13, 2025. Residents who live within the Cy-Fair ISD boundaries and meet certain eligibility requirements are encouraged to register early and prepare now to avoid missing out.
This community-centered initiative is more than a toy drive; it’s a lifeline for families facing unemployment, financial hardship, or crisis during what should be a season of joy. In 2024, CAM’s Merriment at the Ministry served over 3,000 children, providing toys and gifts thanks to the generosity of donors and volunteers across Cypress.
How to Register for Merriment at the Ministry
If you or someone you know could use a helping hand this holiday season, registration is available October 13 through December 6, with multiple dates and times to accommodate busy schedules:
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Mondays & Wednesdays: 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM
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Fridays: 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM
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Saturday, November 15: 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
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Saturday, December 6: 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
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Location: 12930 Cypress N Houston, Cypress, TX 77429 (MAP)
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Contact: help@cypressassistance.org | 281-955-7684
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Website: www.cypressassistance.org
Qualification Criteria Include:
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Residency within Cy-Fair ISD
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A government-issued photo ID
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Proof of household income (e.g., pay stubs, Social Security, child support, unemployment statements)
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Verification of household members, including children (e.g., report cards, SNAP benefits, lease agreement, birth certificates)
Families are encouraged to bring all required documentation with them to streamline the registration process.
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A Longstanding Mission of Support
Founded in 1990, Cypress Assistance Ministries has been a pillar of the Cy-Fair community, offering support to individuals and families during times of crisis. While CAM’s year-round services include financial aid for rent and utilities, job counseling, a food pantry, and clothing distribution, its holiday programs—like Merriment at the Ministry—highlight the organization’s compassionate, community-first approach.
The need in the region is significant. More than 30,000 individuals in the Cy-Fair area live below the poverty line, and CAM steps in to help where other support may fall short. Merriment at the Ministry ensures that children don’t wake up to an empty tree and that families can enjoy a meal together without worry.
Donors and Volunteers: Here’s How You Can Help
The success of CAM’s Merriment at the Ministry program is fueled by the generosity of individuals, families, schools, and local businesses. This holiday season, Cypress Assistance Ministries is asking for donations of new and unwrapped toys, teen gifts, gift cards, and baking baskets to help bring joy to families in need.
Donations will be accepted through Thursday, December 12 at CAM’s location:
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Monday–Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
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Thursday–Friday: 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM
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Location: 12930 Cypress N Houston, Cypress, TX 77429 (MAP)
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Contact: info@cypressassistance.org | 281-955-7684
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Suggested donation items include:
Toys for Younger Children
Barbie dolls, dolls, trucks, cars, robots, Legos, action figures, plush toys, toddler toys, infant toys, superheroes, make-believe toys
Games & Learning
Puzzles, board games, science kits
Creative & Specialty Gifts
Craft kits, makeup, bath & body products, throw blankets, LED items, Bluetooth speakers
Teen Gifts & Accessories
Hoodies, jewelry, handbags, wallets
Sports Equipment
Footballs, basketballs, volleyballs, baseballs & mitts, bicycles, skateboards, helmets, skates
Electronics & Tech Accessories
Earbuds, headphones, drones
Gift Cards
Gift cards in $25 denominations or similar amounts for stores popular with kids and teens
Holiday baking baskets are also encouraged and can be filled with ingredients and supplies to help families create sweet memories together.
To coordinate a private or group donation, email info@cypressassistance.org.
Help Spread the Word
Whether you’re a parent in need, a neighbor wanting to help, or a local business interested in giving back, Merriment at the Ministry offers a meaningful way to connect and care for the Cypress community this holiday season.
Don’t wait until the last minute. Registration starts October 13, and families are urged to gather documents and submit their applications early. To learn more, donate, or volunteer, visit cypressassistance.org.
Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.
