NYPD Commissioner Edward Caban joined fellow cops outside police headquarters on Monday to distribute free Thanksgiving meals to those in need.
Low-income residents from across the five boroughs lined up outside of One Police Plaza for an annual tradition in which they received a free turkey, something the police commissioner says everyone should have during the holidays, yet not all are afforded.
“There are so many organizations that help provide meals to people who would not ordinarily have meals on Thanksgiving, the police department is doing our part,” top cop Caban told amNewYork Metro.
One by one, Commissioner Caban greeted families before handing them a large turkey, putting a smile on their faces. Dozens of seniors and young parents gathered in the courtyard, eager to have an opportunity to enjoy a plentiful Thanksgiving meal during their holiday, which is something they stated would not be possible without the aid of the police department’s yearly distribution. While Caban called it an honor to help bring joy to families, he credited fellow cops for putting in the hard work.
“It’s important for me to do my part. I am so blessed and there are people who are not as fortunate. So, I’m happy to be here with the men and women who do the hard work every single day,” Caban said.
During the giveaway the top cop also spoke on police security surrounding the upcoming Macy’s Thanksgiving Day parade, pledging to ensure a safe and enjoyable event.
“We have our security briefings, and like we always say during our parades, during our big events: there’s a lot of officers you are going to see and some that you won’t see. But we can promise New York City that the men and women of the NYPD will protect New York City every day,” Caban said.
