
The Turkey Distribution brought together a network of volunteers, staff, and local parish leaders who work together to ensure that assistance is provided to those who need it most. Photos courtesy
The spirit of Thanksgiving was alive and well throughout Brooklyn and Queens as Catholic Charities distributed more than 4,100 turkeys and chickens to local parishes for individuals and families in need. The annual Turkey Distribution, which took place at Msgr. Joseph Pfeiffer Resource Center at 155-55 Cross bay Boulevard in Howard Beach, is part of Catholic Charities’ ongoing mission to support vulnerable communities and bring hope to those facing food insecurity. For many years, Catholic Charities Brooklyn and Queens has been providing thousands of families with the means to celebrate a traditional Thanksgiving meal and fostering community and solidarity between local parishes and their parishioners.
The Turkey Distribution brought together a network of volunteers, staff, and local parish leaders who work together to ensure that assistance is provided to those who need it most. Representatives from 35 parishes gathered to collect turkeys, with each parish receiving between 50 and 100 birds. These turkeys will be distributed to families through the parish food pantries, serving as collection points. In addition, Catholic Charities provided holiday staples such as stuffing and vegetables from its 60 food pantries throughout the diocese, ensuring that families receive a complete meal.
Catholic Charities Brooklyn and Queens extends its heartfelt gratitude to Al and Maria Cantanese, who have upheld a ten-year tradition by donating turkeys again this year in honor of their parents. Additional donations of turkeys and food assistance came from EJ Electric, the NYC District Council of Carpenters, ACE Endico, All-Boro Inc., Alba Construction – Commercial Contractors in NYC, Uplift New York Hispanic Federation, Univision Nueva York Contigo, and Catholic Charities of New York. In total, these generous donors provided over 2,100 turkeys, with the remaining supply contributed by Catholic Charities Brooklyn and Queens.
This event is a testament to the collaborative efforts of Catholic Charities Brooklyn and Queens and local parishes to uplift our most vulnerable neighbors and foster community spirit during the holiday season.

Boxes of Turkeys waiting to be distributed at Msgr. Jospeh Pfeiffer Resource Center.
The Thanksgiving Turkey Distribution is just one of many programs aimed at addressing the urgent needs of those facing hunger and hardship in our local neighborhoods.
For more information about Catholic Charities Brooklyn and Queens and upcoming initiatives, please visit www.ccbq.org


