By Mike Kinney
Chilly weather didn’t stop hundreds of people from taking advantage of the growing annual Thanksgiving dinner giveaway at Phila Burger Station in Richmond on Sunday.
The 6th annual event served up free turkeys and bags of groceries, along with free haircuts, live music and lunch from the parking lot of the popular burger spot on 23rd Street.
Dozens of people were lined up to receive their donated turkey dinners at around 8 a.m. Sunday. Volunteer Binder Bains, of Richmond, has volunteered at this event all six years.
“It feels so good to help my neighbors and families during these difficult times,” Bains said.
Sammie Lee, owner of Phila Burger Station, said it was “humbling to see smiles on people’s faces when we can help make their Thanksgiving special.”
Lee noted that the list of local sponsors for this event grows every year. They donate both financially and with food products.
“This year we had Local 741, which are painters and dry wall finishers, and Maggiora Bakery here in Richmond supply tasty dinner rolls to go with the turkey dinners,” Lee said.
In all, the event distributed 350 turkeys. During the giveaway, Loaded Chicken served up specialty chicken dishes, while Mr. Outside Bust Downs provided grilled hot dogs and Lalos Asadas handed out beef tortillas. Barber Kenneth Murray provided the free haircuts, and DJ Eric Dominguez offered live music.
Six years ago, local businessman Alex Valencia approached Lee with a vision to host a charitable turkey giveaway in the restaurant’s parking lot. The annual tradition has grown to touch the lives of hundreds of families in Richmond.
“We work very hard each year to make sure that all of the families that come in here for their turkey dinners have everything they need,” said Valencia. “Every year our turkey giveaway just gets bigger and better.”
San Pablo resident Jorge Reyes called it a blessing for local families.
“During Thanksgiving, it really helps our families to make ends meet,” he said.
