# High school football players gain new perspective helping veterans
The [Calallen Wildcats football team](https://www.kristv.com/sports/friday-night-fever/undefeated-state-quarterfinal-battle-no-2-calallen-and-no-3-boerne-faceoff-friday) may be preparing for the biggest game of the year on Friday, but some of the players are getting a little perspective from the charity work they’re doing.
“Heaters for Heroes” began just a week ago when David Salinas Jr. of the United Veterans Burial Association received a request from a veteran whose heater was broken. He shared the idea of finding and donating space heaters with his son and his son’s friend, who both play for the Wildcats football team.
“It helps me know that I’m invested in the community whether it’s not necessarily doing something on the field for the football team, but for something bigger than me outside of football,” said David Salinas III, a junior quarterback and outside linebacker on the team.
“Just to help the community out when you can. Just trying to help the veterans that do so much for us, so why not do a little for them during the holidays?” added Skyler Rubio, a senior wide receiver and safety.
“The youth is our future. So, we got to kind of start guiding them in the right direction and I believe that we’ve done that and veterans are a big part of life,” Salinas Jr. mentioned.
So far, 15 space heaters have been donated to veterans in need, making a meaningful impact. The hope is that the charity work will inspire the young men to continue helping more veterans. A freshman football player, Drayson Gamez, also contributed by donating heaters.
“It’s teaching them there’s other things other than football. There’s people out there that need help, that could use the help. Most kids aren’t aware of what’s out there,” shared Salinas Jr.
Salinas expressed his admiration for how the football players have taken initiative, starting with seniors, then involving a junior, and now even freshmen are participating.
“I hope it means a lot to them. Helping them out helps me feel good, so. Anything to help them during the holidays and have a better year,” Rubio said.
The fundraiser for heaters for veterans will continue as long as there is a need. Once it warms up, the focus will shift to finding fans for veterans in need during the hot season.
The Wildcats will be facing Boerne in San Antonio Friday night in the regional finals. If you’re a veteran in need of a heater or want to get involved, you can reach out to Salinas Jr.’s office at 361-668-5715.
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