DEARBORN - In the spirit of giving and being thankful this holiday weekend, members of the Arab Student Union at Wayne State University gathered on Wednesday, Nov. 23 to package full Thanksgiving meals for local families as part of an annual tradition. 

The initative included the distribution of 30 turkeys donated by Dearborn Fresh Supermarket via Midamar Halal as well as full array of side dishes provided by Eastborn Fruit Market. Fifteen volunteers packaged them at the Saulino court location of ACCESS, with ACCESS calling local families to receive their dinners. 

“It felt great to be a part of something so special, and I hope we can get more volunteers and pariticipants in our future endeavors,” said Zeinab Sobh, a board member at the ASU of Wayne State University.

The event was begun by attorney Tarek M. Baydoun and has been supported by many community leaders in the past. Last year, State Senator Irma Clark-Coleman attended.

“This holiday marks a time in which we can reflect on the things we are grateful for, and it also serves as a prime opportunity to engage in the spirit of giving,” Baydoun said. 

The group hopes to expand the event annually, to reach more families, and to help more students engage in service-based activities.  ASU will work now on its annual holiday drive, which last year raised over three thousand dollars for school children in the community.