By Mike Kinney
On Sunday, Nov. 21, hundreds of local families gathered at the parking lot of Phila Burger Station on 23rd Street for the 7th annual Thanksgiving dinner giveaway.
The now-beloved community tradition distributes free turkeys and grocery bags alongside complimentary hair-cuts, live music and lunch to community members in need.
By around 8 a.m., dozens of people were already queued up to receive their holiday meals. Owner Sammie Lee reflected on this year’s effort
“This year’s event is notable that it was more difficult to coordinate and execute,” Lee said. “A sense of uncertainty and a dim outlook of these times weighed on the volunteers and participants. But as you can see by today’s turnout there is a strong sense of resilience and a belief in what can be accomplished when people come together with a common vision.”
Lee said the event is possible because of a “greater-than-self” attitude in the community.
“It is easy to give when the harvest is bountiful, but to give when times are lean is something that should be appreciated,” Lee said. “I appreciate everyone here today that made today possible. As well, I appreciate other groups and organizations making it happen in their communities because it is not as simple as just wanting it to happen. There is real work and real passion in what is being done here.”
The giveaway began when local businessman Alex Valencia approached Lee seven years ago with the idea of hosting a charitable turkey event in the restaurant’s parking lot. Since then, the tradition has grown to serve hundreds of families in Richmond.
“Every year our turkey giveaway just gets bigger and better,” Valencia said. “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.”
This year’s list of supporters was extensive. Among the participating sponsors: JM Customz and its sister charity provided dozens of free haircuts; El Compadre Restaurant, MexiHibachi, El Mexicano Deli, Richmond Tires, Tacos El Tucan, El Chaparro Restaurant, BSB (Ballin Since Birth) Basketball Team, Mr. Bustdown, Cloud 9, Fire Department Engine 66, Local Union 376 & 741 Painters & Drywall Finishers, Maggiora Baker, Pepsi Inc., Richmond Hand Car Wash, House of Loving Hands, and AMPS Schools.
