There was lots of merriment as Assemblyman William Colton (D—Gravesend, Bensonhurst, Bath Beach and Dyker Heights) visited community groups and senior centers across his district in the days leading up to Thanksgiving to distribute turkeys that were then raffled off to eager members.

“I always enjoy visiting with area residents, particularly at this festive time,” said Assemblyman Colton. “It’s wonderful, and extremely rewarding, when I get to chat with neighbors and constituents, and share the joy of the holiday season with them. I try to do my part to make sure that residents around the district are able to celebrate, even when money is tight, and to support local organizations that are instrumental in helping members maintain their quality of life. These organizations are such an important resource for area residents, and I am very gratified to be able to support them each year.”

The turkey distribution is a long-standing tradition for Assemblyman Colton.

Among the centers that Assemblyman Colton visited were the JCH Senior Center, Most Precious Blood & St. Mary, St. Finbar Center, Our Lady of Grace, the Sephardic Center, St. Athanasius Center, St. Simon & Jude, Narrows at the Lodge Senior Center, St. Dominic’s and the Marlboro Center. He also joined in at the Marlboro Houses turkey giveaway. Also receiving turkeys were the Chinese American Social Services Center (CASS) and the United Chinese Association (UCA).

The turkeys were donated by the Metropolitan Council on Jewish Poverty, the Pakistani American Youth Organization (PAYO), the Zhanjiang Association of America and Chaim Deutsch.