Former Miami Heat star Alonzo Mourning and volunteers from his charitable organization teamed up with UPS and Publix to donate hundreds of Thanksgiving meals to needy families in Miami Monday morning.
"This is the holiday season, giving is what it's all about," said Mourning.
The former NBA superstar began this tradition 12 years ago with 33 turkeys - for his retired jersey number. This year, he's delivering 733 meals to several locations in the county, including the Overtown Youth Center and Palmetto General Hospital.
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"If I don't do it, then I'm letting them down, I can't put my head on the pillow at night knowing that there's a lot more work out there that needs to be done," he added.
His outreach is inspiring young volunteers.
"I learned from Alonzo that there are a lot of people in need and you want to start off small like little scenarios like this and just keep it going, keep it rolling," said volunteer Jacob Hyppolite.
"I really, seriously love helping people out, 'cause of all the people out there who are less fortunate who can't afford to have a full feast for Thanksgiving dinner. To be able to do this, to help them out is a true blessing," said Jennifer Francois.
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This year, Mourning says the need is especially great.
"With the loss of jobs, people losing their homes, I think all of us, that are watching me right now, know and can identify families who can identify families who are in need in our community."
Mourning said he will also go door-to-door and surprise 10 families in Overtown on Thanksgiving morning with donated meals.
