COLUMBUS, Ohio — Hundreds of families in Linden will be receiving a free Thanksgiving meal through a community partnership with the Columbus Division of Police and Starfish Assignment.
On Wednesday, officers and volunteers will pack more than 200 bags with frozen turkeys and side dishes before going door-to-door to deliver meals to families living in the Rosewind Apartments. The distribution is part of the annual “Cops & Gobblers” event.
“With Rosewind Apartments nearing full capacity, this will be our biggest year yet,” said Starfish Assignment Founder Nicole Banks. “Cops & Gobblers embodies what the holiday season is all about – loving your neighbors and giving back. We are grateful to be part of the Columbus community.”
This is the third year of the giveaway. According to a release from the city, the event is made possible through sponsors Kemba Financial Credit Union, the Starfish Assignment, Walmart and the Columbus Recreation and Parks Department.
The Columbus Division of Police is also hosting its annual turkey giveaway on Nov. 17 starting at 1 p.m., where officers will distribute Thanksgiving essentials at the following Columbus substations:
- Substation 5 – 1371 Cleveland Avenue
- Substation 11 & 12 – 950 East Main Street
- Substation 13 – 544 Woodrow Avenue
- Substation 14 & 20 – 2500 Park Crescent Drive
- Substation 18 – 1120 Morse Road
- Substation 19 – 2070 Sullivant Avenue
Frozen turkeys and pies will be given away on a first come, first serve basis for central Ohio residents while supplies last.
"We recognize that the holidays can be a challenging time for some of those in our community, and we want to do our part to ensure that everyone has a warm and hearty Thanksgiving meal," said Columbus police chief Elaine R. Bryant. "This event is not just about providing food; it's about coming together as a community to support one another and build positive relationships between our officers and the residents we serve every day of the year."