As Thanksgiving Day approaches, various community groups, elected officials and local nonprofits fanned out across South Brooklyn to ensure families had everything they needed for a warm holiday meal. Across the borough, long lines formed outside senior centers, community hubs and public housing complexes to pick up turkeys in a time when grocery prices continue to rise.
Kagan’s Sheepshead Bay giveaway draws hundreds
Former council member Ari Kagan organized his annual “Holiday Turkey Giveaway” in Sheepshead Bay on Monday. With dozens of volunteers and private sponsors, Kagan said he was happy to arrange a “community first” event.
On Instagram, Kagan said he “was very happy to organize the ‘Holiday Turkey Giveaway,” adding that 180 turkeys were distributed.
Fort Hamilton hosts first responder distribution
Fort Hamilton Army Base hosted the First Responder Thanksgiving Giveaway, with help from Council Member Justin Brannan, the Met Council and The Sol Goodman Charitable Trust.
On Instagram, Brannan acknowledged the sacrifices of first responders.
“Our hardworking paramedics and EMTs deserve equal recognition and pay parity that acknowledges the depth of their sacrifice and their contributions to the city.”
Bay Ridge Center raffle supports older adults
The Bay Ridge Center for Older Adults hosted another turkey raffle, with donations from the Salaam Club, State Senator Andrew Gounardes and Ralph Succar. Organizers said the raffle was a festive way to kick off the holiday season and benefit the older adult community in the borough. He hosted another distribution at the Salaam Arabic Church on 80th Street.
Reaching Out does just that
Succar also helped to host another turkey giveaway, in partnership with Reaching-Out Community Services. Tom Neve, the group’s founder, said there was a “line around the block.”
He said this distribution has been ongoing for over 20 years and provides more than just turkey, but everything needed for a complete meal.
“We’re so grateful to everyone who helps make this happen, especially [Succar] from the Rotary Club,” Neve added.
Succar said that he’s “blessed to have excellent members that contribute their time, effort and money,” and wished the borough a Happy Thanksgiving.
