800 Turkeys Given Away During Councilmember John Kennedy’s Annual Holiday Giveaway

Last weekend, Pasadena City Councilmember John Kennedy hosted his annual Holiday Turkey Giveaway and provided 800 turkeys to families in need.

The event at Robinson Park Recreation Center was supported in part by the Pasadena Police Department, Department of Parks, Recreation, and Community Services, and the Pasadena Public Health Department.

Over 40 enthusiastic volunteers gave their time and represented various organizations, including the Pasadena Northwest Ambassadors, Blair JROTC, St. Francis High School, CSG Construction Services Group, Inc., and City of Pasadena staff. 

Volunteers started arriving at 6 a.m. to gear up, set up, and individually package turkeys. The assembly-line drive-thru event ran from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. and served 800 families.

“So many companies and individuals opened their hearts and gave of their resources to help share kindness and the holiday spirit,” Kennedy said after the event. “District 3 Liaison Susana Porras, all of the wonderful volunteers, and gracious and generous donors once again demonstrated that they care in a huge way.  I love them all for that and am simply grateful for all they do building One Pasadena.” 

During normal times, the Turkey Giveaway is one aspect of what Kennedy and his staff do in Pasadena in December, especially in the annual Holiday Gathering at the Pasadena Central Library on Walnut Street, which had to be canceled this year due to the pandemic. 

The Holiday Gathering usually includes community updates by City staff, food or cuisine representing different places around the world, festive carolers and singers of different genres, Santa Claus villages, toy giveaways, an art exhibit, arts and crafts for the children, and a stop-in by the Mayor and First Lady to address the revelers. 

Holiday messages are also delivered by representatives from all religious denominations in Pasadena. 

The event has culminated yearly with the turkey and ham give-away event, which has involved hundreds of donors and volunteers.