A Powerful Partnership in Inclusion: Spotlight on H-E-B

A Powerful Partnership in Inclusion: Spotlight on H-E-B

At GiGi’s Playhouse Sugar Land, we are proud to partner with organizations that not only support our mission but help bring it to life. One of our most generous and dedicated community champions is H-E-B—a Texas-based company known not only for its quality and customer service, but also for its unwavering commitment to inclusion.

H-E-B has long been a supporter of GiGi’s Playhouse, and we are incredibly grateful for the role they’ve played in helping us grow, thrive, and serve more families than ever before. Whether through event sponsorships, grant funding, or leading by example in the workplace, H-E-B is a true ally in the movement for acceptance and inclusion.

A Champion for Our Mission

Over the years, H-E-B has been a steadfast partner in our fundraising efforts. They’ve sponsored key events like our GiGiFIT Acceptance Challenge Walk and our Pickleball Tournament, two of our biggest community engagement and awareness campaigns. These events not only raise critical funds to support our free programs, but they also bring the community together to celebrate the talents and abilities of individuals with Down syndrome.

Their support has helped ensure that GiGi’s Playhouse can continue offering life-changing programs at no cost to families. From speech therapy and fitness classes to social groups and career-readiness programs, every dollar raised through events like these helps us build a more inclusive future—one program, one participant, and one family at a time.

Fueling the Future: A Grant That Changes Lives

We’re thrilled to share that our partnership with H-E-B has reached an exciting new milestone. This year, GiGi’s Playhouse Sugar Land was selected to receive a generous Tournament of Champions Grant—a prestigious award that will directly support the growth and expansion of our GiGi’s Kitchen Program.

GiGi’s Kitchen is one of our most impactful programs, teaching participants valuable life skills through hands-on cooking experiences. In the kitchen, participants learn about healthy eating, kitchen safety, meal planning, and more—all while building confidence, teamwork, and independence. Thanks to H-E-B’s investment, we’ll be able to bring new enhancements to the program this fall, with exciting updates to the curriculum and space that will take the experience to the next level.

Stay tuned—GiGi’s Kitchen will return better than ever, and we can’t wait to welcome participants back to the heart of the Playhouse: the kitchen!

Living Inclusion: Leading by Example

H-E-B’s support goes far beyond donations and event sponsorships—they walk the walk. They are a recognized leader in inclusive hiring practices, offering meaningful employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities across Texas.

One of our very own participants, Sarah, is part of that story. She has worked at H-E-B for several years and is a proud, contributing member of her store team. Her success is a powerful example of what happens when employers prioritize accessibility, training, and inclusion. With the right environment and support, individuals with Down syndrome can thrive in the workplace—and Sarah’s journey proves it.

By opening doors for individuals like Sarah, H-E-B is not only enriching their own workforce, but also showing the world what true inclusion looks like in action.

Gratitude, Growth, and What’s Next

We are beyond thankful for H-E-B’s ongoing partnership. Their belief in our mission, their investment in our participants, and their dedication to building brighter futures make them a standout leader in our community.

At GiGi’s Playhouse, we know that inclusion is more than an ideal—it’s a daily practice that requires action, empathy, and allies. H-E-B continues to be one of our strongest allies, and we are so excited about what’s ahead.

Together, we’re cooking up something truly special—and we’re just getting started.

Thank you H-E-B!

Interested in partnering with us or supporting programs like GiGi’s Kitchen?
👉 Learn more or get involved at https://gigisplayhouse.org/sugarland