In a season where goodwill spreads faster than any winter chill, Cook County officials have just upped the ante. A hefty handout of holiday happiness, in the form of free turkeys, was delivered to the hands of south suburbians by the Cook County Sheriff’s Office and the Cook County Housing Authority – a much-needed boon as families prepare to gather 'round their Thanksgiving tables. In an act of tradition and generosity, approximately 200 free turkeys found their way to grateful recipients on Tuesday, in a pre-holiday donation drive that's as much a staple of the season as pumpkin pie and football.
Cook County's spirit of giving is far from half-baked. Sheriff Tom Dart openly relishes this time-honored event, intent to fully and charitably serve the community. "My office looks forward to this event every year to serve our residents and promote the holiday spirit," Sheriff Dart conveyed with heartfelt gusto. The folks at Richard Flowers Homes in Robbins and the Ford Heights substation surely had a reason to generously give thanks as they hauled away birds big enough to dwarf any family's appetite. The Sheriff’s Office, a veteran in the turkey trade, has been conducting its feathery philanthropy for nearly a decade, in honor – one can only assume – of the festive pilgrim spirit.
Yet, this feast of fowl contributions isn't only about tradition. There's an underlying mission to make a real impact where it counts: in the very homes and on the very tables of county residents. The Housing Authority is the Robin to Dart's Batman, with Marcus King, Director of Strategy and Communication, throwing fuel to the flame of community love. "We believe in the power of giving back and supporting our community," King told officials. "Thanksgiving is a time to come together, express gratitude, and share in the spirit of generosity." The right words to surely warm the cockles of any holiday hardliner's heart.
Around 200 families now find themselves able to to not just have, but heartily enjoy, a Thanksgiving centerpiece that for some might otherwise have been beyond their means. This year, alongside the usual spread of gravy, greens, and cranberry sauce, there'll be an extra portion of gratitude in Cook County homes – a side dish that costs nothing, but is worth everything.
