North Side High grad's nonprofit Linking Hearts has helped Fort Worth families since 2011

Natalie Martinez knows what it's like when money is tight at home. Her family went through hard times when she was a child. Today she runs Linking Hearts, a nonprofit that has given school supplies, dress clothes and toys to students and families in need since 2011.

Martinez graduated from North Side High School in 1996. She grew up and went to school in the community she now serves. Her own childhood made her determined to help families in the same position. "I don't want a mom to feel like that ever again," she told the Fort Worth Report.

Through Linking Hearts, Martinez provides children and families with everyday essentials and school supplies. Sometimes she has paid for prom dresses, suits or athletic uniforms herself. She doesn't make families prove they qualify. "The difference with me is, I'm not asking what your annual income is," she said.

Two events anchor the year. At the annual back-to-school event at Northside Community Center, Linking Hearts gave out 375 backpacks this year, along with free school uniforms and undergarments. Then there's the Christmas toy drive, which in past years was held at Waves of Faith church in River Oaks. Last year 275 children received toys, and the group can serve up to 300.

Roxanne Martinez, president of the Diamond Hill North Side Youth Association, has worked closely with Natalie and been her friend for more than 10 years. She considers Natalie's work far-reaching.

Martinez was recognized in 52 Faces of Community, the Fort Worth Report's weekly series highlighting Tarrant County's unsung heroes. This story is based on original reporting by the Fort Worth Report.