Leopoldo “Polo” Ruiz Jr.’s experiences growing up during the Great Depression instilled in him a profound understanding of struggle and the meaning of “brotherly love.” He never forgot what it meant to face hardship, and he refused to let others in his community face it alone.

This deeply compassionate spirit became the driving force behind his most impactful community contribution. For Polo, running Ruiz Custom Meats was never just about business—it was about using his skills and resources to serve those who needed it most.

Polo pioneered a food pantry project that leverages our unique capability to process wild game, creating a systematic and ongoing source of high-quality protein for Laredo’s struggling families.

1. Hunters Donate Game
Local hunters donate harvested deer, wild hog, and other game animals

2. Expert Processing
We process the game with the same quality and care as paying customers—at no cost

3. Safe Packaging
All donated meat is vacuum-sealed and labeled to the highest food safety standards

4. Community Distribution
Processed meat is delivered to local charitable organizations

Through partnerships with multiple organizations, we’ve created a sustainable, interconnected food security network across South Texas:

– Bethany House of Laredo — Serving 2,200 daily meals to homeless, disabled, and veterans
– South Texas Food Bank — Regional distribution extending beyond Laredo
– Sacred Heart Children’s Home — Nourishing children in residential care
– Laredo Chamber of Commerce — Advocating for food security initiatives

For Hunters:
Donate wild game after successful hunts • Spread the word to fellow outdoorsmen

For the Community:
Use our services—your business supports this work • Volunteer with partner organizations

For Organizations:
Partner with us to distribute donated meat • Help us reach more hunters