"It’s always good to be able to come back...and help out the community that supports us," said Redskins player Lorenzo Alexander.

WASHINGTON D.C.– When Lorenzo Alexander of the Washington Redskins suited up in his jersey and headed to the 90,000-plus seat stadium, FedEx Field, a few days before Thanksgiving—it wasn’t to play football.

He and other players were there joining Operation Blessing in distributing 108,600 pounds of food to families in need as part of OBI’s annual Harris Teeter Harvest Feast event.

“We are out here today, just trying to give back,” said Lorenzo, No. 79. “I have been blessed by God to be fortunate to be able to play in the NFL, and to support my family. So it’s always good to be able to come back, and give back to those who are less fortunate, and help out the community that supports us.”

Families received bags of fresh produce and nonperishable items—enough for a holiday meal with all the trimmings. This year’s event helped more than 3,000 families.

Volunteers from Wachovia, FedEx, Ryan Homes and others helped OBI distribute food to more than 3,000 families.

Joining the Redskins were volunteers from corporate sponsors such as Ryan Homes, FedEx, and Wachovia.

“This is a great opportunity to come out with my co-workers…and help serve our community and do something nice for others,” said Wachovia employee Victoria Hotfield.

In addition to the food, players and volunteers were also able to give away an estimated 1,500 children’s bags, filled with toys, candy and books for kids.

Colt Brennan, Redskins player No. 5, participated last year’s event, and didn’t hesitate at the chance to come back again. “Right now it’s been tough economically for almost everyone out there,” he said. “[This year] is another great experience and hopefully will benefit a lot of families this holiday season.”

James was one of many families who benefited from the special event.

“To the donors that have donated the food, and different things today, I say ‘God bless you,’ you have been a help to a lot of people,” he said.

This was the seventh year that OBI has partnered with the Redskins. OBI first teamed up with NFL team, the Carolina Panthers, in 1998. Since then, they have continued to partner with other NFL and professional sports teams, including an annual spring event with the Kansas City Chiefs and Royals.

HOW YOU CAN HELP
Every day, Operation Blessing brings nutritious food and essential supplies to thousands facing hunger and poverty in America and around the world. With your help, we can continue to impact lives and give hope to those who need it most. Consider making an online donation today.

 

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