Atlanta Turkey Drive Brings Thanksgiving Joy to Over 1,000 Families
ATLANTA — It was a heartwarming scene in Atlanta as the 19th annual Harris Community Works Turkey Drive rolled out. This year’s event wasn’t just another day; it was a beacon of hope for more than 1,000 families who received food ahead of the cherished Thanksgiving holidays.
The event took place at Jackson Memorial Baptist Church, nestled in the Adamsville neighborhood. This grand gesture was pulled off by the iconic Atlanta hip-hop titan, T.I., in collaboration with his family, their charity organization, and city officials including Atlanta’s very own Mayor Andre Dickens and Councilwoman Andrea L. Boone. But they weren’t alone. Leaders from various communities and a crowd of enthusiastic volunteers gathered to lend a helping hand.
The Thanksgiving Spirit in Full Swing
As folks lined up to receive their much-needed Thanksgiving treats, T.I. expressed his gratitude, “Thank you for all of the contributions of the sponsors, and everybody who took time out of their days to come to share their efforts. We want to make sure that you all have enough food for you and your families for the holidays.”
The event was supported by a host of sponsors like Norfolk Southern, Humana, and the Atlanta Community Food Bank, all committed to quelling food insecurity. Mayor Dickens joined T.I., applauding such efforts, “We are out here doing the will of the people supporting folks and making sure everyone gets fed.”
A Tradition of Giving
Behind the curtain, T.I.’s mother, Violeta Morgan, shared a glimpse of the humble beginnings of this heartening tradition, “My brothers started this selfless event and put it on with their own hard-earned money.” An inception grounded in kindness has grown into a full-blown community event, attracting individuals from Atlanta and beyond.
Councilwoman Boone, a steadfast champion of the event, kept the spirit alive by sharing her enthusiasm, “Thank you TIP, thank you to this entire family for never forgetting northwest and southwest Atlanta.”
Volunteerism and Community Impact
Dozens of volunteers were on their feet, gathering and packing turkeys, ready for distribution. One of the volunteers, Chinyere Okoh, shared her 11-year journey with the turkey drive. “I’ve been involved since 2013,” she proudly stated. “Volunteering is actually a way of life at this point for me.”
The gravity of food insecurity was underscored by statistics provided by the Atlanta Community Food Bank, revealing that one in every six children and one in every nine people face hunger in their community. Kenneth Hill, representing the Food Bank, emphasized their steadfast commitment, “We do it for the community, and there is no better cause.”
The Tradition Continues
Looking beyond the turkey drive, T.I.’s philanthropic spirit is undeniable. From opening his affordable housing development, Intrada Westside, to reopening the famed Bankhead Seafood, he’s continually woven into the fabric of Atlanta’s community support network.
As the day wrapped up, the success of this year’s turkey drive left a smile on everyone’s face and showcased Atlanta’s resilient spirit. It’s evident that this annual tradition is here to stay, bringing warmth and sustenance to families across the city.
