Vernon Downs Casino and the Harness Horse Association of Central New York are teaming up to help out families in need during the Holiday season through the Food Bank of Central New York
. To ensure that families in need enjoy a plentiful meal this Thanksgiving, Vernon Downs and the HHA of CNY will donate up to 1,000 turkeys to families, who may otherwise go without.
The Food Bank of CNY represents eleven counties in the local area that includes Cayuga, Chenango, Cortland, Herkimer, Jefferson, Lewis, Madison, Oneida, Onondaga, Oswego and St. Lawrence. "We are extremely grateful to Vernon Downs Casino for their incredible generosity," said Peter Ricardo, Food Bank of CNY’s Director of Special Nutrition Projects. "Their contribution will allow us to provide turkeys to many of our food pantries across CNY that have struggled to meet increased demand for services over the holidays. This will truly be a blessing to thousands of families in need," added Ricardo.
Jeff Gural, Chairman of Vernon Downs Casino also commented on Vernon Downs' community involvement. "On behalf of everyone at Vernon Downs we recognize that it's been a difficult year with the tough economic times, and we want to make sure that as many families as possible get to enjoy a turkey and Thanksgiving with their families," her said.
Vernon Downs Casino is also helping local families with a food drive every Monday in November when patrons can bring in two canned food items and receive double points. Patrons must be a member of the "Your Club" Player's Club and may only redeem one per person per Monday with canned good donation.
To learn more about the Food Bank of CNY and how you can make a difference this holiday season, visit the Food Bank's website at www.foodbankcny.org or call 1-800-444-1562.
(Vernon Downs)