by Kylee Boyter
kboyter@cherryroad.com
SALINA — Teisha Rae Cox and her family are proving that the spirit of giving can truly transform lives. Each Christmas season, they find ways to uplift their community, and this year, Teisha’s initiative has touched dozens of families across central Utah, showcasing the power of unity and compassion.
“We usually adopt a family in need for Christmas,” said Cox, describing their tradition of providing gifts and household necessities. But this year, with her health challenges, Teisha envisioned a new way to give back.
“This summer, I had the idea to take used toys and refurbish them so others could use them as Christmas gifts,” she explained. This project would allow families to receive like new toys at no cost.
Her faith in her community’s generosity was more than rewarded. In just two months, over 30 deliveries of gently used toys were delivered or picked up by Cox, donated by individuals moved by her mission.
“I was amazed by the response,” Cox said. “Some toys just needed a bit of refreshing or new batteries, and I was happy to put in the effort to make them like new.”
Thanks to these contributions, Teisha estimates that at least two dozen families will receive these gifts, bringing joy and hope during the holiday season.
“Coming together is the beginning, keeping together is progress, and working together is success,” said Cox, quoting Henry Ford. Adding onto the quote, Cox said, “I believe together we can make a difference.”
Her initiative has reached far and wide, with families traveling from Sanpete County, Scipio, Payson, and Wayne County to benefit from her project. One particularly touching story involved helping a mother who had lost her home to a fire.
“We were happy to support her,” said Cox. “I’ve accepted everyone who has reached out and will continue to do so as long as toys are available.”
For Teisha, the drive to serve others stems from the joy it brings her, even amid personal trials.
“This year I had my 33rd stomach surgery and have been permanently put on a feeding tube. This coming year I will have a kidney transplant.”
“Those who know me understand how much I’ve faced,” she shared. “In the past, others have had to complete projects I’ve started due to my health. Not this year. I made it a goal to see this through myself.”
Teisha’s story is a testament to the power of resilience, community, and the impact of selfless giving. Her determination and the collective efforts of her neighbors remind us all that when we work together, we can achieve extraordinary things.
This Christmas season, the Cox family has not only lightened the load for families in need — she has also inspired countless others to believe in the transformative power of kindness.
