Reyes, Dodgers and Supermarkets Team Up to Help More Than 600 Families For Thanksgiving

Many families experience hardships through the holidays, especially now during these difficult economic times. But thanks to the generosity of local businesses and volunteers, their holidays will be a little brighter this year.

I recently joined more than 40 volunteers, the Los Angeles Dodgers and local businesses at Dodger Stadium to hand out all the fixings for 600 Thanksgiving dinners to needy families. A special thank you to Ralphs and Food 4 Less who generously donated the food to families in my district, Council District 13, and those qualified through nonprofit groups throughout the City.

Dodgers outfielder Andre Ethier, Hall of Fame manager and special advisor to the chairman Tommy Lasorda, Dodgers legends “Sweet” Lou Johnson and Bobby Castillo, the Greater Echo Park Elysian Neighborhood Council and the Echo Park Improvement Association all volunteered their time for the Nov. 20 event.

Having grown up in many of the neighborhood I represent, giving back to the community is something that has always been very important to me. I wish you, your family and friends a loving and safe Thanksgiving Day.