The Morongo Band of Mission Indians recently donated 15,000 turkeys to non-profit groups, churches, and charities across the Inland Empire region of southern California. The donations are part of the tribe’s 37th annual Thanksgiving Outreach program.
“Morongo is a giving tribe and our annual Thanksgiving Outreach program is a reflection of our tribe’s core values to help others,” said Morongo Tribal Chairman Charles Martin in a statement. “These are challenging times, and we are committed to supporting those in our communities who are struggling so that they can enjoy the holiday with friends and loved ones.”
According to the tribe, the turkeys will provide nearly 300,000 holiday meals to those in need from the Coachella Valley to Los Angeles. Over the program’s 37-year history, Morongo has contributed almost 200,000 turkeys, providing an estimated 3.8 million holiday meals.
Tribal members and volunteers gathered Nov. 13 at the Morongo Community Center to start three days of distributing turkeys to 115 nonprofit organizations, including food pantries, churches, senior centers, schools, and veteran groups. Recipients are from communities including Banning, Beaumont, Riverside, San Bernardino, Moreno Valley, Temecula, Desert Hot Springs, Indio, Redlands, and Los Angeles.
“Morongo’s gift of 300 free holiday turkeys is a blessing that exemplifies the tribe’s dedication to the community,” said Family Services of The Desert Director Dana Johnson. “Thanks to Morongo’s generosity, our organization can help those in need experience the warmth and togetherness of the holiday.”
The Janet Goeske Foundation in Riverside received 200 turkeys to feed senior citizens.
“Morongo’s generosity brightens the season for our senior community, ensuring they can enjoy special and nourishing meals this holiday season,” said Janet Goeske Foundation Executive Director Danielle Nelson. “Morongo’s commitment to enriching the lives of our seniors is truly heartwarming.”
Other non-profit groups that received turkeys include the Los Angeles Mission, Victory Outreach in Banning, St. Elizabeth of Hungary Food Pantry in Desert Hot Springs, and Carol’s Kitchen in Beaumont.
“Morongo’s unwavering generosity enriches the lives of our military families, especially during the Thanksgiving holiday when some veterans struggle,” Western Eagle Foundation President CEO Todd Sieja. “Year after year, Morongo’s support ensures that our veterans can share a delightful Thanksgiving feast with their friends and loved ones.”