The Los Angeles Lakers and East West Bank continue to give back to the community. Their annual Turkey giveaway last week was a huge success. Families waited for hours for the giveaway. Families started lining up at 3 a.m.
From the looks on the faces of the families, it was all worth the wait. Underserved communities still struggle to provide food for their families. Each family received a turkey, fresh produce, dessert, and a Lakers tote bag.
The Salvation Army Los Angeles Red Shield Community Center, located in the Pico Union part of Los Angeles served over 300 local families. Not only was the community thankful, but the staff and volunteers were also grateful for the opportunity to give back.
Former Laker Derek Fisher joined the volunteers to help distribute food. He shared this with the Culver City Observer and the Culver City News the importance of giving back. "I'm thankful that the Lakers and East West Bank considered me for these opportunities. This is not taken for granted to be able to connect with people, share our energies, and share our blessings. This is what community is about."
Fisher shared that it doesn't matter who you work for or what you used to do, it just matters that we show up for each other. When Fisher saw all the families outside, it reminded him that so many families are in need. He said that people need good food, a hot meal, and recognize where they are in life.
This giveaway takes the pressure off of families during the holiday season. Fisher tells Culver City papers that families aren't looking for a handout but a hand-up for things they are dealing with on a daily basis.
Fisher and his wife always wanted to be a part of a great community. "This opportunity was an extension of that dream. It doesn't matter how busy you are, taking an hour out of your day to help the community does not hurt you," states the five-time NBA champion. "None of us are superheroes. When we do get asked to lend our time for these opportunities, there's really no way you can say no."
Seven-time NBA champion and former Laker Robert Horry was also one of the volunteers. The community was ecstatic to see Horry as he has always been a fan favorite. Horry felt honored to be a part of the giveaway and he said he has been doing this for a few years.
"Just to see the smiles on the family's faces knowing you provided a meal for them because you don't know what's going on during the holidays with how the prices are nowadays, this meal will probably last them three or four days," said Horry "I'm honored to be a part of it."
Horry shared that the community allows him to be who he is today. With all the things professional athletes go through, without the community's love and support, they wouldn't be where they are today. So, it's only right to give back. "Why not use that platform to say thank you and give back."
The Captain of Salvation Army Cassandra Amezquita loved the collaboration with the Lakers. It helps bridge the gap of food insecurity. Amezquita notes that they fed 340 families and without the Laker's help, the community may not have had food. "Our community is incredibly grateful. Knowing they have a trusted place like The Salvation Army that will provide these things for them, they are grateful."
The Salvation Army partnering with the Lakers creates the element of trust, according to Amezquita. With inflation people are struggling more than ever, says Amezquita. She says their other business partners such as Starbucks are stepping up to be able to feed the community daily.
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