'Truckers For Turkeys' Returns To NYCB Theatre In Westbury On Nov. 6

WESTBURY, NY — Truckers for Turkeys, an annual food donation event featuring turkeys and much-needed items for Long Island’s food insecure, will be held at the NYCB Theatre in Westbury on Nov. 6.

The caravan – which will include everything from tractor trailers to hot rods - will assemble on the LIE south service road opposite P.C. Richards in Plainview at 9 a.m. It is expected to arrive at the theatre at 11:30 a.m.

The event, co-sponsored by New York Container & Trailer Co. and Gear Jammer magazine for the benefit of Long Island Cares, is open to the public. Food trucks, a DJ, “Show & Shine” truck show, car clubs, hand-rolled cigars, auto supplies and clothing designed by Diesel Hotties will be on hand. Visitors are encouraged to bring a food donation.

“We always want to do our part to donate and give back to the Long Island community by helping combat hunger for Long Island families,” said event organizer Barry Hauptman. “During the holidays we find ourselves very fortunate, and we know there are less fortunate people in our community. We want to help them enjoy the holiday season.”

In 2021, “Truckers for Turkeys” collected 7,500 pounds of food for Long Island Cares, for distribution at its five food pantries and network of more than 300 pantries, soup kitchens, shelters, senior citizen homes and more.

The donated food comes from several sources, including purchases by the truckers, as well as food and cash donations collected from all around Long Island.

“It is not often you see a large group of truckers line up on a Sunday morning to roll out and deliver thousands of pounds of food to Long Island’s regional food bank,” said William Gonyou, community events and food drive manager at Long Island Cares. “The excitement and adrenaline that comes from watching hundreds of vehicles pull into the event space creates a high that lasts throughout the holiday season. The generosity of those participating is beyond inspirational. As our volunteers load up our vehicles with the donations, a sense of purpose runs throughout your body as you visualize the amount of dinner tables that will be filled this holiday season. We are beyond grateful Truckers for Turkeys found a home at Long Island Cares and we look forward to what this year brings.”