Mattituck, NY – On Saturday morning, the Ciciarelli Team launched a unique holiday‑season fundraiser they called the “Thanksgiving Turkey Drive Without the Turkey.” Rather than handing out live turkeys, the group prepared 300 Wegmans gift cards to help families and community groups stretch their holiday budgets.
How the drive unfolded
The drive‑through giveaway opened its lanes at 10 a.m. and ran until about 12:30 p.m. Volunteers from the Ciciarelli Team greeted drivers, checked names against a pre‑approved list and handed out the $25 cards. The event attracted a steady stream of local residents eager to receive a little extra support for Thanksgiving meals.
Cards go to local heroes and first responders
After the initial distribution, the team decided to expand the reach of the gift cards. Additional cards were donated to several community organizations, including the American Legion, the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) and the Hinsdale Fire Department. These groups will use the cards to purchase groceries for veterans, service members and first‑responders who may be facing financial strain during the holiday season.
Community response
Local leaders praised the effort as a practical expression of neighborly care. “Providing gift cards instead of turkeys lets families choose exactly what they need for their Thanksgiving table,” said a spokesperson for the Ciciarelli Team. “We’re grateful for the volunteers who helped make this possible and for the organizations that will pass the cards on to those who serve our community.”
Residents who received cards reported feeling relieved that they could purchase items tailored to their families’ preferences, from fresh produce to pantry staples. The gesture also highlighted the importance of supporting veterans and first‑responders, a theme that resonates strongly in the town’s close‑knit culture.
Looking ahead
The Ciciarelli Team plans to repeat the model next year, potentially expanding the number of cards and partnering with additional local charities. By focusing on flexible assistance rather than a single type of donation, the group hopes to set a new standard for holiday generosity in Matty‑dale and surrounding communities.
For more information about future drives or to volunteer, residents can contact the Ciciarelli Team through their Facebook page or by calling the office listed on their website.
Original reporting: CNY Central WSTM (Sinclair) – local — read the source article.
