A holiday turkey giveaway in Paterson on Saturday helped provide meals for families in need ahead of Thanksgiving. The Dominican Parade and Festival of New Jersey has hosted the annual event for more than a decade, partnering with local food companies and community organizations to distribute turkeys and groceries.

"It's an important time for us to be able to make sure that we give thanks to the people and today, because the economy…is so challenging,” said Rep. Nellie Pou.

More than 1,000 turkeys and food boxes were given out. Organizers said this year’s turnout was strong and that the giveaway was as successful as previous years.