Their Daughter Should Be 13, Instead She Died in School Shooting. How Her Parents Are Honoring Her (Exclusive)

Veronica and Jerry Mata tragically lost their daughter in a school shooting in Uvalde nearly three years ago. Their daughter, Tess Mata, should have been celebrating her 13th birthday, but instead, her life was cut short. Determined to honour Tess’s memory, her parents decided to create a charity in her name. After careful consideration, they launched Gloves for Tess, a charity dedicated to providing quality baseball and softball gloves to children in need.

Veronica and Jerry Mata’s daughter Tess had a deep love for sports and a strong desire to help others. They recognised the financial struggles faced by many families in their community, especially when it came to registering their children for sports leagues. The launch of Gloves for Tess aimed to alleviate some of these financial burdens by ensuring that children have access to the necessary equipment to pursue their sporting passions.

Initially considering providing cleats to children in need, the Matas ultimately settled on gloves as the focal point of their charity efforts. They understood the value of a good glove, which could last for years and make a significant difference in a child’s ability to participate in sports. This choice was a perfect reflection of Tess’s passion for sports and her dedication to achieving her goals.

Tess’s interest in softball was sparked by watching her older sister Faith play. Despite initial uncertainties, Tess soon embraced the sport with determination and drive. Her family fondly remembers her as a focused and goal-oriented young girl who gave her all to everything she pursued. Her dedication and spirit continue to inspire those who knew her, driving her parents to honour her memory in a meaningful way.

Two years ago, Texas State University, where Tess’s sister Faith graduated from, established a scholarship in Tess’s name. The scholarship holds a special significance, as it symbolises Tess’s dreams and aspirations. Her desire to follow in her sister’s footsteps and attend the university was a heartfelt testament to the strong bond shared between the sisters.

The Matas’ new non-profit venture, Gloves for Tess, serves as a beacon of light amidst their grief. By extending support to children in need and spreading joy in Tess’s memory, they are ensuring that her spirit lives on through acts of kindness and generosity. The impact of Tess’s presence continues to be felt through the charity’s outreach efforts, reaching out to children in the community and beyond.

Veronica and Jerry Mata have found solace in channelling their grief into positive action, allowing Tess’s memory to shine brightly through their charitable endeavours. Their unwavering commitment to honouring Tess’s legacy reflects the enduring love and bond shared within their family. As they continue to navigate the journey of grief, their dedication to spreading joy and kindness stands as a testament to the indomitable spirit of Tess Mata. The legacy of love and compassion that Tess left behind continues to inspire and uplift those touched by her story.