ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — An anonymous donor provided The Salvation Army with nearly 13,000 turkeys for families ahead of Thanksgiving.
The Salvation Army St. Petersburg allowed people to pick up a free turkey on Monday, November 24, from 3 pm. to 6 p.m.
It's part of the annual Turkey Toss Giveaway.
Gary Sturdivant, The Salvation Army Area Commander for South Pinellas County, explained how the program got started.
"Some 20 years ago, a little lady had 5 to 6 turkeys in her car in the trunk. She stopped by The Salvation Army in Clearwater and said it's my birthday. I got to get home to have Thanksgiving with my family. Can you all use these turkeys? The Salvation Army said we sure can," said Sturdivant.
This year, the anonymous donor donated nearly 13,000 turkeys to be distributed across Salvation Army locations.
"It's a blessing in disguise, all the sides, everything that you have to tally up is expensive when you have to pay out of pocket for everything with how expensive food is," said Avetta Jones.
More than 700 people received a free turkey at the St. Petersburg location.
"It just means, you know, me and my family can have a nice meal together and just enjoy each other's company," said Deasia Waters.
Sturdivant said The Salvation Army sees people in need every day of the year.
"You have to make a choice to pay your light bill or do you put food on the table," he said.
The Salvation Army also provides people with a free meal on Thanksgiving.
Sturdivant said anyone is welcome to attend on Thanksgiving Day at 340 14th Avenue South in St. Petersburg.
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