Newington police, firefighters and first responders joined Stew Leonard’s and Rep. Gary Turco in handing out 3,000 turkeys to families in need this Thursday.
The distribution was Stew Leonard’s 43rd annual “Turkey Brigade.” Stew Leonard’s team members and first responders formed an assembly line, passing out Thanksgiving turkeys to vehicles as they drove by.
Jake Tavello, vice president of Stew Leonard’s, said that the tradition was started by his grandfather and that he is honored to be able to continue it.
“There are so many people in need,” he said. “As a father of a young son, knowing that there are a lot of hungry families, it feels good to be doing something that is really making an impact in the community.”
Stew Leonard’s also presented a “Hero of the Year” community service award to Sylvia Smith of Peace Missionary Ministries.