Chicago-area charity distributes more than 5,000 turkeys to families in need ahead of Thanksgiving

More than 5,000 turkeys are being distributed this weekend to families in need by the Council of Islamic Organizations of Greater Chicago’s (CIOGC) service committee, Zakat Chicago, during its annual “Feasting with Dignity” Turkey Drive.

This year’s campaign aims to feed thousands of families. Turkeys are being handed out at 36 locations within the city of Chicago and various suburbs through Sunday.

This is the second year of the drive. The initiative provides an opportunity for Chicago-area Muslim communities to unite and make a meaningful impact on their neighbors, regardless of their faith or background, according to a news release.

Last year, Zakat Chicago distributed 3,600 turkeys — a total 46,800 pounds feeding 40,000 families. This year, 5,300 turkeys — about 70,000 pounds — provided by Zakat Chicago will feed 42,000 families, said Salman Mohiuddin, Zakat Chicago committee member and Feast With Dignity project lead.

For more than 30 years, CIOGC has been leading initiatives that directly benefit those in need within neighborhoods and communities throughout the Chicago area and state.

“This is an amazing opportunity for the community to be engaging in these activities, especially during these times of giving and being thankful,” said Irshad Khan, former CIOGC chairman and current chairman for Zakat Chicago.

“Zakat Chicago for the past 20 plus years has been serving underprivileged individuals in the Chicago area,” Khan said. “What’s so unique about its mission and vision is it is local collection and local distribution.”

Local partners who have boots on the ground help identify what the community needs, he added.

Yearly, Zakat Chicago collects nearly $1 million from local residents to help their neighbors. The funds are used to support six local food pantries; provide immediate medical care working with local clinics; assisting refugees with food, shelter and basic needs; purchasing turkeys for families; and a winter coat and supplies drive.

For information, visit zakatchicago.com.