MISSION — Police officers joined emergency medical personnel and city employees served up smiles and turkeys to the public here Tuesday.
The Mission Police Department along with the McAllen ER, Mission Crime Stoppers and the city of Mission held the turkey giveaway at the Mission Parks and Recreations Center, where 100 turkeys were gifted to families in need.
They stood eagerly waiting as community members arrived to receive a free turkey for their Thanksgiving dinner.
At the parks and rec center, bags full of Thanksgiving sides and treats also sat ready for distribution to each family who received a turkey.
Items inside the bags included flour, oatmeal, corn, green beans, fruit and cookies.
Officials on site said it was an opportunity for public officials to help residents who may be struggling get a free traditional holiday feast.
According to Mission Police Chief Cesar Torres, turkeys were distributed to families who had called the city asking for help.
City and emergency officials on Tuesday had already given away 75 turkeys, which were donated by the McAllen ER, by around 10:30 a.m.
“What a better way to provide a service than to give out turkeys,” Torres said.
The chief said this won’t be the only donation this week, adding that officers will be stopping residents on Friday but instead of giving traffic tickets, they’ll be giving away free turkeys.
To see more, view Monitor photojournalist Joel Martinez’s full photo gallery here:
Photo Gallery: Mission city, emergency officials distribute 100 turkeys to local residents
