PEMBROKE PARK, Fla. — South Florida knows how to step up when residents are hurting.

There’s been numerous Thanksgiving food drives over the past several days, and it was no different in Pembroke Park on Monday where Thanksgiving goodies were handed out to those that need them the most.

The event was like a Thanksgiving drive-thru.

Pembroke Park town employees handed out not only turkeys, but a bag fill of all the fixings, including mashed potatoes, cornbread mix and canned vegetables.

Residents, some of whom waited in line for several hours, were very thankful.

“I come by and get what they give me and I am very, very grateful for it,” said resident Ed Maley.

The town has been hosting the event for more than 20 years.

Currently, the need is great as grocery prices are high, and we are just coming off a government shutdown.

“What we are seeing is that the need that started a few years ago,” said Joe Donzelli with the town of Pembroke Park. “The pandemic, it got worse. As long as there’s a need, we’ll be here.”

In neighboring West Park, officials were handed out a holiday feast of their own.

“I’m grateful, I love this neighborhood,” said West Park resident Margaret Sainvilus. “I think it is a wonderful thing to be blessed with some food. Being on a fixed income, it makes a big difference.”

Local 10’s Aaron Maybin was among those volunteering at the event, where Mayor Felicia Brunson spoke about why this year’s drive was so important.

“Food insecurity is a major issue, so we want to make sure residents in West Park and beyond are taken care of,” she said.

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