Operation Gobbler Returns to Fill Plates and Hearts Across Pasadena

The Pasadena Junior Chamber of Commerce (Jaycees) will host its 41st annual Operation Gobbler on Sunday, Nov. 23 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Friends In Deed, 444 E. Washington Blvd. in Pasadena. The Thanksgiving food distribution is open to Friends In Deed Food Pantry community members only.

In partnership with Friends In Deed, the Jaycees aim to provide turkeys and holiday essentials to 450 local families facing economic hardship.

“Operation Gobbler is such a meaningful tradition for the Jaycees,” said Chairperson Manuel Ochoa. “It brings our community together in the spirit of gratitude and reminds us that everyone deserves the chance to celebrate Thanksgiving around their own table.”

Donation tiers include: $30 Cranberry Cutie Donor (1 family), $150 Little Acorn Donor (5 families), $300 Yam Buddy Donor (10 families), and $600 Pumpkin Patch Pal Donor (20 families). Corporate tiers include: $1,500 Harvest Hero Sponsor (30 families), $2,500 Golden Feast Sponsor (50 families), and $5,000 Cornucopia Champion Sponsor (100 families). Sponsors will be recognized on the Jaycees’ 2025 banner.

Donations can be made via Venmo (@Jaycee-Treasurer), PayPal (paypal.me/pasadenajaycees), or by check to Pasadena Jaycees. More details are available at pasadenajaycees.org/opgobbler..

Friends In Deed, founded in 1894, operates five core programs including a Food Pantry, The Women’s Room, Street Outreach and Housing, Bad Weather Shelter, and Eviction Prevention and Rental Assistance. Its work is guided by values of compassion, dignity, and inclusivity.

Pasadena Jaycees. 474 W. Walnut St., Pasadena. (313) 655-6011, Email: dmcwilliams@pasadenajaycees.org. Website: https://pasadenajaycees.org/opgobbler