The Christal Foundation Grant

The Christal Foundation Grant supports 501(c)(3) organizations working towards the welfare of homeless felines in the San Antonio area. Founded by Lyn and Tom Christal, the foundation emerged from their dedicated animal rescue efforts, particularly for the numerous homeless cats in Brackenridge Park. The grant aims to fund initiatives for the care and protection of imperiled felines, ensuring betterment and prevention of cruelty within the community.

History of The Christal Foundation
Lyn and Tom Christal were married in 1975. The couple made Alamo Heights their home and both contributed to the greater San Antonio community. Tom was president of the San Antonio Food Bank and served on the board of Second Harvest (the national organization of food banks). He also served the United Way as its food industry chairman and a member of its Tocqueville society. Tom led his industry as Chairman of the Association of Sales and Marketing Companies and as a member of the Grocery Manufacturers of America Board. Lyn was a leader of the Delta Society (now Pet Partners), a member of the Junior League of San Antonio and Secretary of the Sussex Spaniel Club of America. During her time with Delta Society she led the organization’s founding of the Fiesta Pooch Parade, now an official Fiesta event.
The Christal’s most energetic undertaking was an animal rescue effort that came about as a result of Tom’s involvement with the Brackenridge Park Conservancy. The Christal’s became aware of hundreds of homeless cats living in the 350-acre confines of Brackenridge Park. Tom and Lyn organized and funded a continuing effort to care for these unfortunate animals, at the time numbering around 200. Lyn and Tom became expert trappers and caregivers. A large, caged enclosure was constructed at their home to handle animals that needed rehab after vetting, socialization or simply loving care after the trauma of abandonment. The Christal Foundation came about as a result of the Christal’s experience and lessons learned over a lifetime of helping animals in need.

Eligibility

To be considered for a grant you must submit a copy of your organization's current IRS Determination LetterThese grants are directed to 501(c)(3) organizations which fall within the principal charitable purposes of the foundation as outlined in Article 2 of the document. To provide financial assistance to qualified organizations which direct their activities towards:Betterment and care of imperiled, homeless, or otherwise unwanted felines in the San Antonio Metropolitan area and other adjacent or nearby locals where a specific need might be identified;The protection and prevention of cruelty to felines;Provide for the welfare of felines in general. The Christal Foundation makes distributions on an annual basis.