This Thanksgiving, the Gulfton Management District partnered with the Asian American Peace Officers Association (AAPOA) to distribute 600 Thanksgiving meals to local families. The event, part of a citywide initiative, was made possible through the tireless efforts of AAPOA, local sponsors, and volunteers who came together to ensure a brighter holiday season for Houston residents.
Coming Together to Serve the Community
Before the meals could be distributed, volunteers gathered at the PlazAmericas Mall to prepare the packages. The event saw an incredible turnout, including community leaders like Commissioner Leslie Briones, who worked alongside AAPOA and hundreds of volunteers. The collaborative effort involved packing thousands of turkeys and canned foods into bags for distribution across the city.
Key organizations were instrumental in the event’s success. The Harris County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO) provided mobile command transportation with semi-trucks running from 4 AM to 6 PM, supported by motorcycle escorts for smooth traffic flow. Precinct 4 Commissioner Lesley Briones supplied forklifts and pallet racks, while Critical Power Solutions collected supplies from Walmart and provided a box truck for deliveries. Vu Law Firm and L’Auberge Casino Lake Charles were major financial contributors and also had volunteers on-site to assist with packing. Volunteers stayed energized thanks to breakfast from McDonald’s Regional Office and lunch from Kim Son and Pho Saigon.
“None of this would have been possible without the collective support of these organizations,” said David Tong, Executive Director of AAPOA. “From the donors to the volunteers, every single contribution made a difference in ensuring families could enjoy a Thanksgiving meal.”
This event proves how a collective effort by a few organizations can make such a powerful impact to many in need.
Distributing to Residents in Gulfton
Just hours later in Gulfton, a distribution of the thanksgiving dinners took place in front of the Houston Police Department (HPD) storefront. Residents drove up in their cars, where HPD officers and other volunteers worked diligently to hand out the meals. The drive-through setup allowed for a seamless and efficient process, ensuring that every family received their Thanksgiving meal with ease.
The gratitude from the residents was clear, with many expressing heartfelt thanks as they received their meals. HPD officers played an essential role, not only by assisting with the distribution but also by fostering a positive and welcoming atmosphere.
Another Thanksgiving Success
The Turkey Drive was a resounding success, with over 4000 meals distributed citywide thanks to the contributions of Gulfton and other sponsors. The event not only provided food but also strengthened the bond between the district, its residents, and local law enforcement.
David Tong emphasized the critical role of the district in making the Turkey Drive a success each year: ”Management districts like Gulfton are instrumental in these efforts. Their funding, organization, and dedication to community support ensure events like this can happen. Without them, we couldn’t have made such a meaningful impact.”
The Gulfton Management District’s sponsorship of this initiative reflects its ongoing commitment to supporting the local community and encouraging positive interactions between residents and law enforcement. By collaborating with AAPOA and HPD, the district ensured that families in Gulfton could enjoy a warm Thanksgiving meal during the holiday season. The board of the Gulfton Management District wishes everyone a happy and safe holiday season, filled with love, gratitude, and togetherness.
