When Hurricane Beryl struck Southeast Texas, it derailed the plans for a special celebration for 7-year-old Benito De Leon’s birthday in Plum Grove. However, thanks to the combined efforts of Plum Grove Police Sergeant Monica Palacios and Plum Grove Pizza Hut general manager Keith Morgan, Benito’s birthday turned into a memorable event.
Sgt. Palacios first met the De Leon family in May, during the catastrophic floods that devastated Plum Grove and the surrounding area. The family’s resilience left a lasting impression on her.
“This family lost everything and they have had my heart ever since,” Palacios shared.
As Benito’s birthday approached, Palacios was determined to create a special celebration despite the aftermath of Hurricane Beryl, which had left many stores and businesses closed. Her mission was to find a cake and fresh hot food for Benito and his family.
“She wound up telling me that his birthday was coming up and that she was going to buy a cake and was wondering if we could do anything for them. I told her I could donate pizzas and 2 liters to get everyone set for the event,” said Morgan.
On Saturday, July 13, Palacios managed to find a small round white cake and a birthday card for Benito at a Walmart in Cleveland that had just reopened after the hurricane. She then visited the Pizza Hut on Plum Grove Road, which was also open, and knew it was about to be time for a party.
“Thanks to the manager at the Pizza Hut, Benito was able to have pizza and Dr. Pepper for his birthday. He was so happy and excited,” Palacios said.
Morgan contributed three pepperoni pizzas and two 2-liter bottles of Dr. Pepper to the celebration.
“It’s just the right thing to do. I would want someone to do it for me and my children if we were in that position and we wouldn’t turn anyone away. I don’t do it for recognition. I am just trying to help somebody,” Morgan explained.
In addition to the cake and pizza, Palacios gave Benito a birthday card with $20 inside.
“He said he was going to use his birthday money to buy blue gum,” Palacios said.
Morgan emphasized his willingness to help others in need.
“If we ever have anything happening, we would be more than happy to help or assist. It doesn’t hurt to ask us. We do everything we can as long as we are able to. I personally do stuff like this all the time. We have donated to the fire station, and we’ve donated to a bunch of different first responders during the last flood,” he said.
Looking ahead, Palacios and Morgan plan to collaborate again to assist the De Leon family, this time with school clothes and supplies for Benito and his younger brother, a 5-year-old, as well as their baby sister, who is 6 months old.