Pechanga Donates Hundreds Of Thanksgiving Turkeys For Needy Families

Turkeys by the hundred are being distributed to shelters and church groups this week, in the Pechanga Resort & Casino's annual Thanksgiving campaign to help needy families throughout southwest Riverside County.

One of the biggest donations will be made tomorrow, when 400 turkeys are delivered to the Temecula-Murrieta Rescue Mission, according to Pechanga spokeswoman Ciara Green.

She said representatives from the Pechanga Band of Luiseno Indians will make the delivery around 8:45 a.m. at the Grand Isle Senior Community Center at 24405 Village Walk Place in Murrieta.

"This is a huge blessing for us and for our community," said Temecula- Murrieta Rescue Mission spokesman Eric Wells. "Thousands of people will be able to share a holiday meal with friends and family, something they're not always able to do because of economic conditions."

Pechanga Development Corp. President Patrick Murphy said a total 1,525 turkeys are being distributed ahead of Thanksgiving.

"Our tribe has a rich history of supporting charitable organizations that provide much-needed resources to individuals and families in our community and beyond," Murphy said.

This is the fifth year Pechanga has sponsored a Thanksgiving donation campaign, according to Green. --City News Service