By Affi Bassey, Staff Reporter
Compton residents came together on Nov. 23 to support their neighbors in need during the city’s annual turkey giveaway. The pre-Thanksgiving event at Greater Zion Church Family brought together local leaders and business owners, who handed out 700 turkeys to residents in need.
Volunteers started their work early, and welcomed attendees with hot coffee and music. Residents also picked up canned and dry goods to round out their holiday meals. With many households looking for ways to stretch their grocery budgets, the giveaway was a much-needed blessing.
“Inside the boxes are turkeys, mac and cheese, mashed potatoes, cornbread, and green beans, and then also produce…everything needed to make a great great whole dinner,” said Greater Zion Church Family Pastor Micheal J.T. Fisher.
Meanwhile, a few lucky residents walked away with gift cards to retailers like Amazon and Best Buy. City officials said the event helped to remind residents about the importance of community.
“Thanksgiving is about gratitude and togetherness,” said Compton Mayor Emma Sharif. “This event is a small way to show our residents that they’re not alone – we’re here to help.”
“This year has been so tough, especially with prices going up on everything,” said resident Maria Rodriguez, a mother of three. “Knowing that we’ll have a Thanksgiving dinner to enjoy together means so much to me and my kids.”
In addition to Thanksgiving foodstuffs, residents received information about community resources, including food assistance programs, health services, and housing support.
“We wanted this to be more than a giveaway, we wanted it to be a moment of connection,” said event organizer Lisa Morales. “The holidays can be difficult for so many people, and we hope this helps brighten their season.”
The last turkey given was met with cheers from volunteers, who told The Bulletin the event strengthened their connection to the community.
“I feel happy knowing that I could be a part of something big,” said Jaquan Tyson. “I’m just a teen, but I feel like a superhero in my hood.”