Thanksgiving is on Thursday, but hundreds of people in Brooklyn already have something to be thankful for.
City Councilmember Crystal Hudson held her annual Thanksgiving distribution event at the Saint Francis de Sales School for the Deaf on Eastern Parkway Saturday.
Hundreds of folks in need from Hudson’s district lined up for a free turkey, plus all the fixings.
Hudson says the recent lapse in SNAP food benefits that people did not receive during the federal government shutdown makes this year extra important.
“This year’s particularly significant because of everything that’s happening at the federal level, with the reduction of benefits, the food assistance that so many people have lost, and so making sure that we are providing people with a turkey and sides so they can prepare a full meal for their families is extra special this year,” Hudson said.
“I am thankful that the government is open now, but food insecurity still exists. And we can’t pretend like all of a sudden everyone has what they need. Because on a daily basis, they just don’t,” Public Advocate Jumaane Williams said.
“I buy one every year, so I’m grateful to have this one. I really appreciate you guys. Thank you for everything,” Chantell from Crown Heights said.
Hudson says 100 volunteers from various community groups spent the day giving away more than 1,000 turkeys.
Spectrum helped contribute to the event. Spectrum is the parent company of NY1.