STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. — As Thanksgiving approaches, more than 100 Staten Island families will sit down to a holiday meal thanks to an extraordinary partnership that continues to reshape what community impact looks like in sports.
Last week, the Staten Island FerryHawks delivered turkeys to five local schools — PS 18, PS 74, PS 57, PS 65 and Eagle Academy — as part of their annual Thanksgiving Turkey Drive, supported by the Children’s Literacy Society and Wu-Tang Clan. What began as a simple holiday gesture has grown into a borough-wide initiative rooted in pride, culture, and collective responsibility.
The effort is part of the deeper “Shaolin Hawks” collaboration — the first partnership of its kind between a professional sports team, the iconic Staten Island-based Wu-Tang Clan, and a local nonprofit founded by community leaders. Since launching in 2023, the Shaolin Hawks identity has become a symbol of what’s possible when sports, music, and education come together with purpose.
FerryHawks outfielder, Mark Contreras takes the field in the “Shaolin Hawks” alternate jersey on Wu-Wednesday.Staten Island FerryHawks
Each season, the FerryHawks dedicate multiple game days to their Shaolin Hawks persona, taking the field in the rap group’s iconic black-and-yellow colorway — a visual homage instantly recognized throughout the hip-hop world. These nights have become some of the most anticipated dates on the team’s schedule, drawing fans from across the borough and beyond. Exclusive merchandise, including limited-edition hats, shirts, and even a collectible RZA bobblehead honoring one of hip-hop’s most revered producers, turns these games into cultural events as much as baseball showcases. A portion of proceeds from these items goes directly back into community programs, ensuring the collaboration creates lasting impact long after the final out.
RZA takes the field with FerryHawks Executive Vice President, Gary Perone at SIUH Community Park.Staten Island FerryHawks
Central to that impact is the Children’s Literacy Society, a Staten Island-based 501(c)(3) founded in 2009 by Sofia Diggs and Lucille Belyayev. The organization works year-round to provide educational resources, literacy programs, and essential support to borough children. The Shaolin Hawks partnership channels meaningful funding and visibility to these efforts, strengthening the foundation for future generations.
Sofia Diggs, co-founder of the Children’s Literacy Society, visiting SIUH Community Park before the unveiling of the “Shaolin Hawks” identity in 2023.Staten Island FerryHawks
“The FerryHawks, CLS, and the Wu-Tang Clan share a belief in community and to meet real needs here at home said Gary Perone, Executive Vice President of the FerryHawks. ”This shared vision and commitment is what makes this partnership so special and powerful for Staten Island.”
For the FerryHawks, the turkey drive is not a one-week effort — it’s one piece of a year-round commitment to using their platform to support children, families, and the future of the borough. From literacy programming to food access initiatives, the Shaolin Hawks partnership has evolved into one of the most meaningful and culturally powerful collaborations in independent baseball.
And for the families receiving holiday meals, the impact is immediate — and deeply felt.
Stay tuned for the FerryHawks 2026 Wu-Inspired Theme Nights to be announced at a later date!