Manos Unidas Fashion Show Gala Raises Awareness and Support for Domestic Violence Survivors in Maverick County
By Jose G. Landa, Copyright 2026 Eagle Pass Business Journal, Inc.
Community members gathered Tuesday, September 29, 2026 evening at the International Center for Trade for the Manos Unidas Fashion Gala Show 2026, an event combining fashion, art and community support to raise awareness and funding in the fight against domestic violence.
The gala was held at the International Center for Trade at 3295 Bob Rogers Drive and featured a fashion show and silent auction. Proceeds from the event will help Manos Unidas continue providing assistance to domestic violence victims and supporting services connected to the local shelter that opened in August.
Manos Unidas Director Yaraida Alexander and event organizer and host Angela Gonzalez welcomed the community’s support and highlighted the organization’s mission of restoring safety, dignity and hope for survivors.
The coalition provides crisis intervention, emergency shelter, counseling, legal advocacy, medical assistance and other services for people experiencing domestic violence.
Eagle Pass City Councilman and community health advocate Elias Diaz-Reyes thanked those in attendance and recognized the work being carried out by Manos Unidas in partnership with local law enforcement agencies, government entities and other community organizations.
“What you see here is how we have been able to turn a story into such a powerful experience,” Diaz said. “I remember the investment Methodist Healthcare Ministries made in this vision, where the goal was to serve Maverick County the way our community deserves. What we are doing now is important work in the community.”Diaz thanked the individuals, sponsors and organizations that helped develop the coalition and continue working to protect local residents. He emphasized the importance of ensuring that victims know assistance is available and that they do not have to confront domestic violence alone.
“Manos Unidas did not exist two years ago, but I guarantee that we are going to be here in two years, and the two years after that, and the two years after that,” Diaz said. “This program does not belong to a single person or organization. It belongs to all of us.”
The organization’s work addresses a serious and persistent problem in Maverick County.
During the past two years, local law enforcement agencies have responded to an average of at least one domestic disturbance call each day. Those incidents affect not only victims but also their children, relatives, first responders and the organizations responsible for helping families find safety.
In 2025, the City of Eagle Pass partnered with Manos Unidas and the Winter Garden Women’s Shelter to strengthen public awareness and connect domestic violence victims with assistance.
As part of that initiative, signs containing emergency contact information were placed inside restrooms at restaurants, businesses and public locations throughout the community. The signs offer victims discreet access to potentially lifesaving information, particularly when they are unable to ask for help openly or safely.
The gala’s silent auction featured donated merchandise, services and other items, with proceeds benefiting programs that assist local domestic violence survivors. The event also gave residents an opportunity to learn about the services available in Maverick County and the partnerships supporting that work.
Anyone experiencing domestic violence or who knows someone who needs assistance may contact Manos Unidas at 830-968-1301.
The organization is located at 1299 E. Main Street, Suite B, in Eagle Pass. Anyone facing immediate danger should call 911.
