Several people were surprised this morning with a visit from the police and a free Turkey.

Westland Police Officers not only gave out Turkeys Instead of Tickets, they also gave Turkeys to local families who have suffered a tragedy this year. The Turkeys were donated by MIRA’s foundation, MIRF as part of their Annual High Five Turkey Drive.

“Our officers went out for about an hour today to give out Turkeys and residents were very appreciative,” said Police Chief Jeff Jedrusik. “Some of our residents faced some serious tragedies this year and we wanted to do something that could possibly bring them some joy this holiday season.”

Every year, the Midwest Independent Retailers Foundation (MIRF) Turkey Drive Committee pledges to put a turkey on the Thanksgiving table of more than 6,000 families throughout Michigan, Ohio and Illinois that may not otherwise enjoy this special meal.

“Since 1980, the Midwest Independent Retailers Foundation and its members have provided Thanksgiving turkeys to needy families and each year the list of charitable groups asking for turkeys grows,” said Auday Arabo, president and CEO of MIRA. “We are always looking for new partners who can help us give out more Turkeys every year.”

The Westland Police are also getting ready for their ‘Stuff the SWAT Truck Event’ which will be held on Black Friday at Target on Warren Rd in Westland.