Each year, the Racetrack Chaplaincy of New York helps bring Thanksgiving to hundreds of families on the backstretches of Belmont and Aqueduct. Families get a free turkey along with all the trimmings, and with the holiday just a few weeks away, the Chaplaincy is in high gear coordinating this initiative.

Photo courtesy NY Racetrack Chaplaincy

Each food package includes a turkey and supplies for meals beyond the holiday, including items such as rice, beans, corn, potatoes, onions, carrots, canned vegetables, cooking oil, tortillas, and juice.

In addition, hundreds of men and women who live on the tracks, most of whom will work on Thanksgiving, are offered a holiday meal that day.

The Chaplaincy relies on the generosity of its donors, who can contribute in several ways:

• Donate food items
• Organize a food drive at your school, business, or place of worshiop
• Send a monetary donation online
• Share this information with others who might be interested in helping.

The Chaplaincy needs to receive all donations by Monday, November 16. To donate or for more information, contact the Chaplaincy at (516) 488-6000 ext. 4036  or visit its website.

Photo courtesy NY Racetrack Chaplaincy