Jiryiah Johnson’s parents are starting a charity called Jiryiah’s Wing’s to honor him and his legacy. Their first project is Easter baskets.
SAN ANTONIO — It’s been nearly six months since the passing of 1-year-old Jiryiah Johnson.
Jiryiah died after being attacked by dogs while he was being babysat at a home one the north-east side.
Jiryiah’s parents are now turning their tragedy into a treasure for other children.
Jiryiah’s parents say the past six months have been difficult, as they learn to cope with his passing.
“He was just a sweet boy, sweet boy, little by little, we’re pushing through, fighting, taking it day by day, you know, step by step,” said Erika Castro, Jiryiah’s mother.
In October of 2024, deputies say 1-year-old, Jiryiah was attacked by his babysitter’s dogs.
Jiryiah fought for his life inside a hospital ICU but ultimately died from his injuries.
“We still cry, of course. It’s just, it’s been a journey,” said Castro.
Now that journey has led Jiryiah’s parents to turn something tragic into a treasure for other children. About a week ago, Jiryiah’s mother, Erika, says she was overcome by a feeling.
“I don’t know, maybe Jiryiah saw something we didn’t see, and he was like ‘hey mom like make Easter baskets for some kids, that don’t have Easter baskets or parents who can’t afford them,’” said Castro.
Jiryiah’s parents are in the process of starting a charity named after Jiryiah, called Jiryiah’s Wing’s. This is the first project of many, according to Jiryiah’s parents.
So far they have 47 Easter baskets made but are looking for more donations. Next weekend, they plan on giving out 120 baskets.
“God’s work is to give and take care of others, so that’s our objective,” said Julian Johnson, Jiryiah’s Father.
Erika says Jiryiah’s Wing’s is a way to honor him, and continue his legacy.
“I just thought we’d give back because he’s making some changes to the city. He’s making changes to animal control, and now with the new law being pushed, that’s all my son,” said Castro.
In a couple of weeks Jiryiah’s parents will head to Austin to testify before the Texas Legislature. Currently there are two bills making their way through the legislature, which would toughen penalties for dog attacks.
“We don’t want to like go through that again, or have anybody else go through what we’ve been through, because it’s just tragic,” said Castro.
If you would like to donate items, you can contact Jiryiah’s mother Erika through the Jiryiah’s Wing’s Facebook Page. The family says they are open to any blessing they can get.
You can find the link to the Facebook page by clicking here.