Thanksgiving meals prepared for Sandy first responders

TORRESDALE, NJ - November 21, 2012

The food is destined for the first responders of Seaside Heights and Wildwood, New Jersey - two areas ravaged by Hurricane Sandy.

It was paid for by non-profit organization - The American First Responder Institute, which aims to meet the immediate needs of firefighters, police and emergency personnel.

"Meeting the unmet needs of first responders during times of crisis. You can honor a hero by giving him a Thanksgiving dinner! It's just part of the mission," said Bill Finegan.

On Thanksgiving Day, first responders will get a few slices of turkey, a spoonful of mash potatoes and all the fixings.

The non-profit plans to feed 4,500 people.

"Everyone deserves a Thanksgiving meal, so we are hoping everyone can get together with their families and enjoy Thanksgiving like I'm going to do with my family," said John Nagele.

Thanks to Maggie's Waterfront Cafe, The American First Responder Institute and other volunteers, the Thanksgiving holiday will live up to its name.

Copyright © 2024 WPVI-TV. All Rights Reserved.