The Sycuan Band of the Kumeyaay Nation has partnered with the San Diego Padres and the National School District, to give away 1,000 turkeys to National City residents and families.
Tribal council members and San Diego Padres alumni players aided in distributing the turkeys to local families. Notable Padres alumni present during the event included Joe Musgrove, Tim Hill, Cory Luebke and Tim Stauffer.
Padres CEO Erik Greupner commented: "As we begin the holiday season, the Padres are proud to have partnered with the Sycuan Band of the Kumeyaay Nation and the National School District to provide Thanksgiving turkeys for families in our community.
"We are thankful for the opportunity to directly connect with families in National City."
Sycuan Band of the Kumeyaay Nation Chairman Cody Martinez stressed the importance of helping families during the holidays and noted this year’s economic challenges have added to the necessity of charitable giving.
He commented: "With the cost of groceries, fuel, housing and many basic necessities on the rise, it's been a really tough year for many people.
"Through the Kumeyaay spirit of giving, we wanted to figure out a way to directly support the hardworking families in our community. We hope this donation provides a little bit of relief and spreads holiday cheer to those that need it most."
Families with children who are enrolled in any of the city’s 10 public schools within the National School District received a free turkey during the giveaway. School Board President Maria Betancourt-Castañeda said the school system is committed to developing compassionate citizens.
She said: "National School District strives to cultivate compassionate world citizens.
"This incredible donation from the Sycuan Band of the Kumeyaay Nation, made possible through our partnership with the National City Chamber of Commerce, is a wonderful example of communities supporting each other and illuminating the true spirit of Thanksgiving."
