FAIRLAWN, Ohio (WOIO) – Hundreds of people lined up Tuesday for the annual Kisling, Nestico and Redick turkey giveaway, with demand so high the law firm ran out of turkeys hours before the scheduled end time.
The giveaway required participants to donate a canned good or gently used coat in exchange for a free turkey. People began lining up at 6:30 a.m. for the event that started at 11 a.m., marking a record turnout for the annual event.
“It’s a long line but it’s worth it to give back to the community,” said Jacki Kirby, who attended the giveaway.
John Reagan, a managing partner at KNR, said the firm has organized the fundraiser for 13 years. He said two years stand out for high demand.
“When was COVID, when things were up in the air and nobody knew what was happening next, and the other is this year, when there’s food insecurity, government layoffs, benefits are up in the air, so it’s really meaningful this year, especially to give back,” Reagan said.
Community donations support local organizations
The donated coats went to Volunteers of America, while canned goods were given to the Akron-Canton Regional Food Bank.
Mary Brown, a widow who attended the event, said the giveaway helps during difficult financial times.
“I feel great. It’s an opportunity. I can give back, and I can still receive something too, because when things are limited, this makes a big difference,” Brown said.
Brown said the turkey allows her to continue hosting family gatherings despite being on a fixed income.
“Right now, when things are tough and they’re tight and you’re on a fixed income and it just barely meets what you have, and it’s the holiday and you want to be a blessing. I want the friends and family to still be able to come to the house for the holiday and give thanks,” Brown said.
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