Sabres, Tops Friendly Markets, Entercom Buffalo partner for 'Turkeys for Tickets' drive

The Buffalo Sabres o Friday announced they will once again partner with Tops Friendly Markets and Entercom Buffalo for a Thanksgiving turkey drive on Monday, Nov. 21, to benefit local food pantries. The turkey drive will take place from 7-9 a.m. in these locations: 

• KeyBank Center Surface Lot (Enter lot from Baltimore Street, via Perry Street)
• Tops Market in Tonawanda (890 Young St., Tonawanda)
• Tops Market in West Seneca (355 Orchard Park Road, West Seneca)

"As an organization, we feel it's important to do our part to help ensure that all families in our community have a chance to enjoy a warm Thanksgiving meal," said Sabres President Russ Brandon. "Our fans have been very generous with their donations since we began the 'Turkeys for Tickets' program, and we're happy to bring it back for another year."

The annual Thanksgiving turkey drive returns this season after collecting more than 2,000 pounds of turkey last year.

"We are extremely excited to once again partner with the Buffalo Sabres on 'Turkeys for Tickets,' " said Andrew Brocato, director of public and community relations for Tops Friendly Markets. "We know that this creative way to secure food for those during the holiday season will ensure they enjoy a delicious meal with their family and friends, and nothing warms the heart more than neighbors helping neighbors."

For every 20-pound turkey dropped off, or the equivalent of a 20-pound turkey, the Sabres will give away two tickets to an upcoming game to the donor. Tickets (maximum of four per person) will be distributed immediately at the drop-off sites.

"We are so thankful for the partnership of the Buffalo Sabres, Entercom and Tops Friendly Markets as they once again team up to provide holiday meals to hungry local families," said Marylou Borowiak, president and CEO of the Food Bank of Western New York. "Their support makes a true difference in the lives of our neighbors in need."

All of the donated turkeys will directly benefit the Buffalo City Mission and the Food Bank of Western New York.

"Each year, the Buffalo City Mission, along with the help of our generous community, come together to ensure the season is a blessing for all who are in need for the Thanksgiving holiday," said Stuart Harper, CEO and executive director of the Buffalo City Mission. "This much-needed event will help us provide over 5,500 Thanksgiving meals that will be delivered to those who are elderly, shut-in and impoverished in Western New York.

"We are so thankful to be a recipient of this year's 'Turkeys for Tickets' event. Having a strong community partner such as the Sabres, who understands the importance of making sure no one goes hungry this Thanksgiving holiday, is a true blessing."

The Food Bank of Western New York provides food to 330 member agencies, such as food pantries, soup kitchens, shelters and group homes in Cattaraugus, Chautauqua, Erie and Niagara counties. Monthly, through these agencies, it serves approximately 106,000 individuals, including 39,000 families, nearly 37,000 children and over 11,000 seniors.