Utica, N.Y. – Earlier today, the Utica Comets players, coaches, and staff bussed down the road to the Rescue Mission of Utica to personally deliver 250 turkeys and other Thanksgiving goods to local families in need.
Comets players first unloaded the turkeys from the Chanatry’s truck, before transitioning to inside the Rescue Mission to pass out the turkeys, which were purchased by the Save of the Day Foundation. The players bagged potatoes and passed out stuffing, provided by the Rescue Mission. The Comets also coordinated the donation of 300 foil baking pans, donated by Family Dollar locations in Barneveld, Utica, and Whitesboro.
In its fifth year, the annual tradition has been a fruitful one for both the Rescue Mission and the Comets, who both benefit from the experience in their own ways. Many families who would not otherwise be able to enjoy a Thanksgiving meal are now able to, while the Comets organization is able to lend a helping hand while remembering those less fortunate during the holidays. Many faces lit up upon seeing the Comets players, who signed autographs, mingled with the families, and provided a sense of holiday cheer through their laughter and company.
“It’s good to get the guys out in the community,” said Comets player Reid Boucher. “This is a town that cares about their team so it’s good for us to give back.”
“The Comets organization is grateful to be in the position to help during the holiday season, especially for such a terrific cause run by the great leadership of Ernie,” said Comets President Robert Esche.
“It is wonderful to be able to see the Comets giving back, we’re grateful every year they do this,” said Jim Haid, Executive Director of the Rescue Mission. “It’s really a heartwarming thing to see and it shows the community is important to the Comets.”
Founded in 1980, the Rescue Mission “endeavors to assess and meet the physical, emotional, and spiritual needs of all people coming for assistance.” The Rescue Mission is open 24 hours a day and 365 days a year, and yearns to provide families experiencing their hardships with positivity and a delicious meal through the holiday season.
