Red Bulls & Kean University Athletes Team Up For Turkey Giveaway

In a heartwarming display of community partnership, the New York Red Bulls and Kean University are joining forces to spread Thanksgiving cheer to families in need. On Thursday, November 21, 2024, from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., the Red Bull Arena in Harrison, NJ, will host a Thanksgiving Turkey Giveaway, providing turkeys to registered families facing food insecurity.

Individuals wishing to participate must register in advance to receive a designated pickup time. Upon arrival, registrants are directed to proceed down Cape May Street, park in the East Parking Lot, and enter at Gate D. The initiative aims to assist as many families as possible. Still, due to limited supplies, the Red Bulls have emphasized that a turkey cannot be guaranteed for every registrant. You can Register through this link.

Addressing Hunger in the Local Community

Tonilynn Taranto, Community Relations Manager for the New York Red Bulls, highlighted the importance of addressing food insecurity through community initiatives. “In New Jersey, food insecurity is a huge issue, and this is our way of combating hunger,” she said. The turkey giveaway is one of the many ways the Red Bulls aim to give back to the community. It is not clear how many local families will be assisted by the event. The Thanksgiving Turkey giveaway is not limited to Harrison residents.

The partnership with Kean University student-athletes further amplifies the Red Bulls’ effort. Eddy Occhipinti, Associate Director of Marketing at Kean University, emphasized the joy and significance of the event last year when he stated “Whether it’s a Red Bulls player or the Red Bull administration and staff or student-athletes, the fact that they are all smiling doing this lets you know how important this [turkey giveaway] is. The fact that it can directly impact how special Thanksgiving will be for some of these families is a very special thing.”

Players and Students Making an Impact

The collaboration extends beyond the organizational level, involving Red Bulls players and Kean University student-athletes who volunteer their time to help. Peter Stroud, a New York Red Bulls player, expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership. “To get to partner with a local university like Kean and obviously work with Kean student-athletes is a great experience,” Stro said. “They are taking their time to volunteer and help.”

Spreading Holiday Cheer

As Thanksgiving approaches, the Red Bulls and Kean University are ensuring that families in need have an opportunity to celebrate the holiday with a traditional meal. This joint effort reflects the spirit of giving and underscores the importance of community collaboration in tackling food insecurity.

For families in need, this event offers more than a turkey—it brings hope, joy, and the promise of a special Thanksgiving celebration

Photos Courtesy New York Red Bulls

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