ATLANTIC CITY, N.J. – Families lined up outside the Atlantic City Police Athletic League building yesterday as officers handed out hundreds of Thanksgiving turkeys in an annual show of community support.

The Atlantic City Police Department distributed 250 turkeys to local residents in need.

Chief James Sarkos joined Deputy Chiefs Garofalo and Leonard, Captain Zelinger, and a team of NCOs, patrol, and tourism district officers to help deliver the holiday meals.

Local businesses and organizations stepped in to make the event possible.

Community partners boost effort

The law firms DJD and Goldenberg & Mackler funded this year’s turkey supply, while other local groups added festive touches to the giveaway. The Salvation Army served hot chocolate to attendees, the Atlantic City Public Library distributed hats and gloves, Tanger Outlets provided holiday stuffing, and Casel’s Marketplace donated canned goods.

The event drew volunteers from across the city, many of whom have supported the program since its inception. For the police department, the annual event has become more than a giveaway — it’s a chance to connect with the community beyond enforcement.

Building bonds through service

Chief Sarkos emphasized that the department’s Thanksgiving tradition reflects a broader effort to strengthen relationships between officers and residents. “This is what community looks like,” the department shared in a statement.

The ACPD said it plans to continue expanding its holiday outreach programs as demand grows each year.

Atlantic City officers joined residents and local partners to deliver holiday meals and goodwill ahead of Thanksgiving.

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