Hampton to Continue Kennedy Turkey Giveaway

The late Pasadena City Councilmember John Kennedy at his annual Holiday Turkey Giveway event in 2020, during which the event gave away 800 turkeys to families in need. [Courtesy image]

Councilmember Tyron Hampton will continue the legacy of the late Hon. John J. Kennedy at 1 p.m. on Tuesday at Robinson Park, 1081 N. Fair Oaks Ave. at the annual John J. Kennedy Turkey Giveaway.

Kennedy died in July 2022. Since that time, his sister Lena Kennedy and others have worked to keep his legacy alive.

“John was passionate about making sure the needs of the community were met,” Lena told Pasadena Now on Monday. “I am honored that Tyron Hampton has taken on the leadership of keeping John’s legacy alive.”

Kennedy also expressed thanks to Mayor Victor Gordo, Councilmember Steve Madison and the Honorable Janet Braun of South Pasadena.

Gordo, Madison, Braun and District 5 Councilmember Jessica Rivas are scheduled to attend the event.

John Kennedy passed out more than 1,500 turkeys and hams to local families every year.

“Thanksgiving is a special time to come together with family, friends, and loved ones,” Hampton said. “I am grateful for the opportunity to support our families and build a stronger community during this holiday season. We all have so much to be thankful for, and Thanksgiving provides us with a chance to express our gratitude to others. I am honored to continue the tradition of providing turkeys as it brings joy to many people who eagerly anticipate this tradition.”

Volunteers have included members of the Pasadena Police Department, the city’s Parks and Recreation Department, the Pasadena Fire Department, My Tribe Rise, Children Working to Save Our Planet, USMC-Pasadena, Blair Jr. ROTC, Former Police Chief Cheryl Moody, the Pasadena High School football team, Northwest Ambassadors, and members of the city of Pasadena’s Executive Leadership Team.

Kennedy began the event in 2013.

Lena Kenndy said that this year Danny Bakewell, Jr.,

Doug Kranwinkle, Christina and Dewault Brown, Beverly Morgan Sandos, Ann and Robert and Rene and Billy Richardson stepped up to make sure the event continued.

You must register online to participate. Use the link below, https://www.signupgenius.com/go/JJKTUrkeygiveaway

One turkey per Pasadena household while supplies last.