Community members, city leaders, and elected officials, including council members and senators, came together over the past two weeks to host turkey distribution events across the city, ensuring families in need could celebrate Thanksgiving. From neighborhood gatherings to large-scale giveaways, the initiatives aimed to combat food insecurity and bring holiday cheer to underserved communities.
Councilmember Sandra Ung continued her annual Thanksgiving tradition of giving back to the community by hosting her largest Turkey Giveaway to date. This year, 526 turkeys were distributed to local community groups, nonprofits, food pantries, NYCHA residents, and constituents, ensuring families across the district can enjoy a warm Thanksgiving meal.
Office of Councilmember Sandra Ung
“The generosity of our sponsors makes it possible for us to help families facing difficult economic times,” said Councilmember Sandra Ung. “These free turkeys are a small gesture, but they bring a little peace of mind and one less thing to worry about during the holiday season. I am so grateful to everyone who helped make this year’s giveaway our biggest yet.”
Councilmember Ung has hosted a Turkey Giveaway every year since taking office, and each year, the event has grown in scale.
Senate Deputy Leader Michael Gianaris partnered with the Carpenters Contractor Alliance of Metropolitan New York, Woodside Houses Tenant Association, and Sunnyside Community Services to supply turkeys to families in Western Queens. The event included a turkey distribution, hot meals, PPE, and information on the New York State Home Energy Assistance Program.
Courtesy Office of Senate Deputy Leader Michael Gianaris
“I am proud to work with community organizations and partners to ensure every family can enjoy a proper Thanksgiving meal,” said Senate Deputy Leader Michael Gianaris. “I will continue working to serve those in need during the holidays and all year round.”
Courtesy Office of Senate Deputy Leader Michael Gianaris
Brooklyn Borough President Antonio Reynoso, in partnership with UA3, hosted his annual Thanksgiving food distribution event outside of Brooklyn Borough Hall. Staff distributed over 60,000 pounds of fresh produce, non-perishables, and other food items to more than 120 Brooklyn houses of worship, community kitchens, and other community-based organizations addressing food insecurity and homelessness.
Courtesy Office of Brooklyn Borough President Antonio Reynoso
“Thanksgiving is a time to come together to practice gratitude, eat fresh food, and spend time with loved ones. Unfortunately, for too many Brooklynites, it’s a reminder of the challenges they face to put food on the table,” said Brooklyn Borough President Antonio Reynoso. “While the fight against food insecurity is every day and ongoing, I am so thankful to our partners and staff who’ve worked so hard to ensure more Brooklynites can enjoy a hearty Thanksgiving meal with turkey, rice, potatoes, carrots, apples, beans, and more. I wish all of Brooklyn a very joyous Thanksgiving!”
Courtesy Office of Brooklyn Borough President Antonio Reynoso
Courtesy Office of Brooklyn Borough President Antonio Reynoso
Senator Jessica Ramos (D, SD-13) hosted her annual Turkey Giveaway on November 20th at P.S. 19 in Corona, where, along with IUJAT and the Carpenters, the office gave out over 400 turkeys, including halal and kosher options. This event featured free books, live music by the High School for Arts and Business Jazz Band, and hot food served by The World Changers. Collaborating with the VFW Post 150, the Senator hosted a second Turkey Giveaway on November 27th, where they served another 200 families with frozen turkeys.
Courtesy Office of Senator Jessica Ramos
During the week before Thanksgiving, the office of Senator Ramos distributed another 400 turkeys to schools, churches, and non-profits in Jackson Heights, Elmhurst, East-Elmhurst, and Corona.
Courtesy Office of Senator Jessica Ramos
“This time of year is significant for our neighbors and their families but remains an unfortunate reminder of the high cost of living that impacts our communities,” said State Senator Jessica. “I am grateful to have helped alleviate some of the burden of expensive Thanksgiving dinners for many families in the district. We are particularly grateful for our partners and sponsors who gave their time or resources to ensure families had a home-cooked meal this holiday.”
Courtesy Office of Senator Jessica Ramos
The Astoria Welfare Society also distributed halal chicken & vegetables on Sunday Nov 26 Tuesday to more than 150 families and other community members in need at 30th Street and 36th Avenue in Astoria.
Courtesy the Astoria Welfare Society
