Morongo Band of Mission Indians Donates 10,000 Turkeys

Thousands of turkeys are headed to needy families this holiday season thanks to the Morongo Band of Mission Indians. This is the 31st year the tribe has given away turkeys to nonprofits, churches and charities across Southern California. In those 31 years, the tribe has been able to provide almost 2 million meals to families in need.

“We give them to veterans, to the seniors, to the churches, and it warms our heart and makes us feel good that we’re helping and that they’re sitting down to a hot meal,” said Outreach Coordinator Desiree Schunke.

These birds get sent 116 different charities, some of which are right here in the valley. Four hundred turkeys were given to the Coachella Valley Rescue Mission.

“This is the most we’ve ever received from them. But the Coachella Valley Rescue Mission is serving more people than ever before. So it’s a great opportunity for us to team together and serve all those who are in need here in the valley,” Scott Wolf from the Coachella Valley Rescue Mission said.

Another 150 turkeys were given to Martha’s Village.

“We’re very thankful that the tribe does this annually, and this helps us out a great deal,” said Pablo Orantes with Martha’s Village.

These turkeys are expected to provide more than 200,000 Thanksgiving meals.