Zakat Chicago and Partners to Distribute Over 5,000 Halal Turkeys for Thanksgiving

By Abdullahi Yusuf

Latonja Ross, 51, joined a line at Sanad Social Services’ food pantry in Chicago Lawn USA to collect a turkey and sides for Thanksgiving. A longtime resident of the neighborhood, Ross cherishes hosting her family, including her mother and four sons, for the holiday but often struggles with the rising cost of food.

“The food stamps I get are not enough to feed me and my boys, and turkeys cost a lot of money at the store,” she said. “It’s helpful when you get them from your local neighborhood.”

Sanad’s pantry, located at 3302 W. 63rd St., is one of 35 partners participating in the Council of Islamic Organizations of Greater Chicago’s second annual turkey drive, “Feasting with Dignity.” Running from Friday through Sunday, the initiative aims to distribute over 5,000 halal turkeys to individuals and families across diverse backgrounds, fostering interfaith and intercultural connections during the holiday season.

Though Thanksgiving and Christmas may not traditionally be associated with the Muslim faith, serving the community and helping those in need are fundamental principles in Islam.

At Sanad’s food pantry, hundreds of people lined up around the block, each leaving with a grocery bag filled with canned goods, fresh produce, and a choice of a chicken or halal turkey. Zakat Chicago, the charity arm of the Council of Islamic Organizations of Greater Chicago, provided the turkeys, while the Greater Chicago Food Depository supplied the sides.

Last year, the drive distributed over 3,000 turkeys, and this year, it has expanded its reach. Irshad Khan, chairman of Zakat Chicago, highlighted the organization’s broader mission, which includes providing food aid, financial assistance, and other support to communities in Chicago and its suburbs.

For Ross, the turkey drive is a lifeline. “I’m grateful for the food pantry and excited to put a meal together for the whole family on Thanksgiving,” she said.

The Council of Islamic Organizations of Greater Chicago continues to demonstrate how acts of service can unite communities and bring dignity to those in need during the holiday season.

SPONSORED

SPONSORED

SPONSORED