TorHoerman Law hosted its eighth successful Thanksgiving Turkey Giveaway on Nov. 20 at the Alton Amphitheater.
The Edwardsville law firm gave away 500 turkeys in a drive-thru style event.
“This is always one of our favorite events,” said TorHoerman Law attorney Eric Terry. “It’s always nice to be able to give back to the community. We really appreciate all of the sponsors and local agencies (Alton PD) who support the event with their time and resources.”
The event, which began in 2014, was supported by local organizations and businesses, including the Alton Police Department, Urban League, CliftonLarsonAllen LLP, Walton Telken, Paszkiewicz Litigation Services, the Lane family, Source Juicery and Robert Chick Fritz.
“The Turkey event this year was full of love and community,” said Urban League member and event organizer Nikki Miller. “Not only did we have the best law firm in the world giving back to a community that’s always forgotten about, but the love and dedication that TorHoerman shows Madison County, rain or shine is proof that good people still exists (sic).”
The event was conducted in a contactless manner due to continued concerns regarding COVID-19 in an effort to maintain social distancing. All staff participants and attendees were also required to wear masks.
The successful event has grown over the years, and TorHoerman employees said they have seen the positive effects it has had on the community.
“It’s very satisfying personally to be a part of an event where we can give some support to those in the community who might be having a difficult time,” Terry stated in an event press release. “I first realized how impactful the event was when someone told me that because of the event, they were able to have a traditional Thanksgiving for the first time in a couple of years.”
According to the press release, 12 percent of Madison County families face difficulty in obtaining consistent meals. The turkey giveaway aims to provide a free Thanksgiving dinner to families who may be struggling.
“The Turkey Giveaway is important because we are able to provide Thanksgiving dinners to households that may not have enough in their budget to purchase a turkey and other food,” stated paralegal and event organizer Kristie Stephens. “This could make a difference in deciding whether to buy medicine or pay a bill. This will be one less thing to worry about as the holiday season approaches.”
TorHoerman Law hopes to expand the turkey giveaway.
“The only thing that can make this giveaway better is to let it grow,” Schneider stated. “More community involvement, more donations, and more people allow us to expand our reach and help more people. It’s power in numbers.”