On Tuesday, Nov. 26, the Sacred Heart University Student Government hosted its 13th Annual Turkey Drive at St. Charles Church in Bridgeport in slightly rainy conditions.
Once the turkeys were delivered to the church, families drove through to pick them up. They were handed out by students and others volunteers at the event.
In addition to the turkeys, the Office of Community Engagement, in collaboration with SHU Athletics, held its annual food drive to gather nonperishable goods.
With the support of Arlete Perez Paez, SHU’s Assistant Director of Community Engagement, the initiative collected thousands of items. These donations were blessed during a university interfaith service.
Members of the SHU Men’s Lacrosse team volunteer
at the 13th Annual Turkey Drive.
Members of the SHU Community volunteer at the 13th Annual Turkey
Drive.
The drive has been a staple event within the SHU community for over a decade.
“The special thing about this event is we are working directly with the individuals and families who surround our school, and that is exactly why our SHU community should care,” said Gracie Patriarco, VP of Community and Inclusion Organizer.
“Oftentimes we can get stuck in our small bubble on campus, and this event allows us to reconnect with our community, providing support from one neighbor to another during a time that is not easy for everyone.”
This event brought many people together, including past contributors, such as members of the SHU men’s lacrosse team.
“I cannot wait to participate in the drive again. It really does help people and it feels like being able to make a difference in such a big way,” said sophomore James Maron, a member of the team.
Others shared similar sentiments.
“I am super excited to interact and connect with the families. Being able to see the direct impact you are having on someone’s holiday is amazing, and I think Student Government as a whole really appreciates this aspect of the event,” said Patriarco.
According to the drive donation page found through the SHU Student Government Instagram, the event raised a total of $17,478 by Nov. 26, the final day of fundraising, among 370 donors.
“Donations have matched up great this year. We are extremely happy with the generosity shown by the SHU community,” Partiarco said.
Donations came through the canned food drives, a senior pub night, the crowd change link and canning, where SGA went around campus collecting any donations ranging from spare change to bills.
This year’s turkey drive showcased the SHU community’s commitment to helping its neighbors.
“I think the event is incredibly rewarding and important for all of those participating whether giving or receiving. Seeing the immense amount of positivity and even just the smiles on the recipient’s faces is something that is unmatched,” said Bente Bogues, Class of 2025 President.
“It’s important because the Turkey Drive helps out everyone in the surrounding communities. It is a great cause that helps a lot of families be provided for and make sure that they have food on the table for Thanksgiving,” Bogues said.
