Black McDonald's operators host turkey giveaway, feed thousands across Chicago area in Chatham
Hundreds braved the cold weather Wednesday morning for an act of kindness that's warming hearts and lifting spirits.
The Black McDonald's Operators Association works every year to make sure no Chicagoan goes hungry this Thanksgiving.
"We are hungry out here and what is going on in our society and in the government is just unfair to the people - not only Chicago, but all over the nation," Cythia Whitemon said.
From Chopper7 a long line of people could be seen stretching down Martin Luther King Drive before the giveaway began on Wednesday.
"It tells you there is a strong need in the community," Black McDonald's Operators Association's Brian Graham said. "We want them to walk away that McDonald's the Black Operators Association is a part of the community, that we are here to serve."
For 25 years, BMOA has hosted its "Food for the Body and Spirit" mission.
With the record-breaking government shutdown happening, many who rely on SNAP benefits are going without.
"There's tremendous need with the government shutdown and everything. A lot of folks just need help," Tamala Mahoney said.
People in line also received gift cards, tasty baked goods along with hats and gloves.
"When the government shuts down, the city lifts up. We are the city that always comes together. We are the city of big shoulders and big hearts," 6th Ward Alderman William Hall said.
Local veterans were among the first in line to receive their meals - as a thank you .
"I am extremely grateful," U.S. Army Veteran Robert Shaw said. "We need the food. We need everything the government can possibly give us because of the simple fact that we can't make it. As seniors, we're struggling out here."
Within 45 minutes, 600 turkeys were passed out.
The next giveaway will be on Thursday at 8 a.m. at the McDonald's at 1637 West 95th Street.
More details are available at bmoachicagoland.org .
