Line Forms For Opa-locka Turkey Giveaway
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MIAMI (CBSMiami) - For many of Opa-locka's residents in need, it has become a Thanksgiving tradition.
Before dawn they line up at City Hall for Vice Mayor Timothy Holmes annual turkey and fixings giveaway.
"It means the world to me because I wouldn't have it if it wasn't for him," said Melissa Ortega.
Ortega said she can't remember the last time she had a Thanksgiving meal.
"It means everything, it's been a long time since I've had one. I lost all my family to cancer. I'm homeless. I haven't had it in a long time," said Ortega.
The line began to form around 4:30 a.m. with the arrival of Wonda Smith.
"Praise the Lord he woke me up at 4:30 a.m. and I got here at a 4:45 a.m.," said Shirley Austin who added she was very grateful for the giveaway because she couldn't afford a turkey for her family.
Sislyn Brown, who was tenth in line, said the turkey and greens given away will help supplement the $91 in food stamps she receives that "don't even stretch monthly for one person, so, 'Commissioner Holmes' Turkey' will feed the grandkids for Thanksgiving."
"I think it's a blessing because a lot of people don't have no food and have kids and deserve it," said Beverly Brown. "I've got two bags of bologna and hot dogs. They're cutting our food stamps and no raise for disability. I didn't now what I was going to do."
This is the 19th year for the event which sponsored by the Mayor and city's Commission and is only open to residents and city employees.
As in previous years, The Reed Family has returned and will distribute "Good Georgia Greens" which, along with the turkeys, will be given out on a "first come, first serve basis," while supplies last, beginning at noon.
