How ‘New Jack City’ inspired a delegate to give away 2,000 turkeys in Richmond

RICHMOND, Va. – The Giveback Turkey Giveaway and Resource Fair took place Saturday on Richmond’s Southside.

Del. Michael Jones, who organized the sixth annual event at River City Middle School, said this was the largest turkey giveaway in metro Richmond.

“A lot of great groups are doing really good things for families,” Jones said. “But here at Southside, we can stake our claim and brag about having the biggest giveaway.”

FULL INTERVIEW: Del. Mike Jones talks about giving away turkeys for Thanksgiving

FULL INTERVIEW: Del. Mike Jones talks about giving away turkeys for Thanksgiving

Jones, who served on the Richmond City Council for seven years and now represents the 77th District in the Virginia House of Delegates, said he suggested the idea when Rosie’s Gaming Emporium moved to town.

“When Rosie’s first came in and they were pitching to open a store on the south side of town, I told them about a movie I saw growing up called ‘New Jack City’ where they already gave away these turkeys,” Jones recalled. “And I said, ‘Look, I’m not a drug dealer, but I want to impact my community in a positive way…’ I wanted to be that person who would give this community life and love. . They partnered with We used to go from 1,000 turkeys a year to this year giving away 2,000.”

Jones said the birds mean so much to families.

“That turkey goes a long way. We have it on turkey on Thanksgiving Day, we make sandwiches out of it. Our mothers and grandmothers took that carcass and later made it into stew,” Jones said. “We say that ironically, but it’s more than just one meal. It allows them to spend less money elsewhere and get some of those essentials here.”

The resource fair featured local vendors offering information about support services in the area.

“It’s good to know that you’re helping families and helping people who are really grateful for this opportunity,” Jones said.

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