BASE New England Donates 200 Turkeys for YMCA

A few weeks ago, we were asked to help the Gleason Family YMCA with raising funds to fill about 200 Thanksgiving Kits for local families in need. Each kit for the Thanksgiving Turkey and Trimmings project would have the necessary ingredients for a holiday dinner, including a beautiful turkey to complete the feast. We expected to spend a full week trying to get enough money donated to fulfill the need. However, an angel really came through for us within 24 hours.

You never know who's listening to the radio. After finishing up the public service announcement, I saw a text that said not to worry about a thing and that 200 turkeys would be delivered to the YMCA in time for Thanksgiving. My buddy, Richie Canastra, his brother Ray and BASE New England seafood auction on the waterfront stepped up with a group of fish house owners to donate all of the turkeys.

Debbie Fringuelli, Senior Executive Director of the Gleason Family YMCA is overwhelmed by the surprise.

We are humbled and grateful for the generosity of our local fishing industry who single-handedly donated the 200 turkeys needed! Their gift will ensure that over a thousand people will have the opportunity to celebrate this Thanksgiving holiday with a nutritious meal. Thank you just doesn’t seem to be enough!

As difficult a year the fishing industry has had, it's an inspiration to see this collective group giving to others in need. On behalf of the Gleason Family YMCA and all of us here at WBSM, thank you for your kindness and generosity this holiday season.