By Anthony Council
Multi-media Correspondent
The Dallas Mavericks served their community with generosity and care at the Season of Giving Turkey Giveaway. They partnered with Buckner International and Kroger to help out families for the holidays. Some Mavericks players, such as Dereck Lively II, Klay Thompson, and Dwight Powell, gave out turkeys and a bag of goodies for families doing a drive-by pickup for the holidays. Over 300 cars were wrapped around Buckner Humanitarian Aid Center to have a chance to see some of the mavericks and have joy in their vehicles.
Mavericks center Dereck Lively II , who sported a turkey hat on his head covering up his hair, shared how great it feels to give back during this time of year. “I can think about when I was a little kid. I wasn’t in a very fortunate situation to have a lot of turkey or sides. He reflected. “To now be able to give back, you know, it means a lot to me to make a difference in somebody’s day.” This event was another milestone for Kroger and Buckner International’s longstanding partnership with the Mavericks. John Votava, director of corporate affairs in the Dallas region, mentioned how great the event is with the Mavericks, being it 6 years with them now and the main goal in mind.
“Kroger is feeding the human spirit in our communities.” He emphasized. “We do that through our zero hunger, zero waste social and environmental impact plan. We want to end hunger in our communities.”
This initiative underscores Kroger’s commitment to nourishing families and reducing waste across the country, reflecting its mission to create lasting change in the communities it serves.
Reverend Johnny Flowers, the assistant director of Buckner Center for Humanitarian Aid of Buckner International, who has been involved since 2009, exercised the moment with the Mavs and families as signs of hope in challenging times. “It is such an amazing event for the families, for the community, and it provides that hope that so many people are falling short of during this difficult season,” he shared. He also highlighted some of the unique moments and energy the Mavericks brought.
“The Mavericks players and the ManiAACs, the personalities—they were into it. The guests were into it. And just being that personal, it makes a huge difference. And after all, we know the Word of God tells us, ‘With loving-kindness have I drawn thee, and today they displayed that loving-kindness and just made Thanksgiving that much more special.”
With unforgettable moments made. Families with memories that can last a lifetime. The Mavericks Kroger and Buckner International showed the power of community, making this Thanksgiving one to cheer about.
