There are a host of reasons why many in our community have fallen on hard times. And where there is a need, most times you will find someone giving their time, money, and resources. Thanks to an NFL star, many families now have a reason to celebrate this Thanksgiving.
Alfonzo Chavez wasn't going to be late. The Bakersfield grandfather lined up alongside hundreds of people, many of whom were looking for hope this holiday season. "I fell on hard times, my house is in foreclosure right now, I'm not going to give up."
Good thing Chavez and others had support from Bakersfield native, and NFL star Joey Porter. Porter along with volunteers at the Jasmine Nyree Center organized a turkey handout Saturday. Where needy families received a basket full of all the ingredients for a happy Thanksgiving. "Everybody is always going to need help, it makes you feel good giving back to the community, giving these families a chance not to go without a Thanksgiving dinner."
Anthony Netters, received turkey meal. "I'm out of work right now, I ran on hard times, it's good to have thanks for people out there that are helping, it's hard out there, but it's not the end of the world."
It's a simple act of kindness. Carmen Martinez, received free turkey dinner. "Thank God that Joey came out to help where he is from."
Ruby Barboza, waited in line for turkey dinner. "It's going to be a good Thanksgiving for me and my family." But one that restored hope for these families, and a new reason to be thankful come dinner time.
Thanksgiving sure to be special for those families. Volunteers were able to hand out about 400 turkeys Saturday, all donated by Joey Porter.
