As the holiday season approaches, Jonathan Owens, a safety for the Chicago Bears, has once again stepped up to spread Thanksgiving joy in Chicago. On November 11, he launched his third annual turkey drive, aiming to provide meals for 500 families through his Jonathan Owens Foundation.
Jonathan Owens spreads Thanksgiving cheer with annual Turkey Drive in Chicago
This event has grown into a heartfelt tradition for Owens, one that reflects his commitment to giving back to each NFL city he’s called home. Collaborating with Kareem Wells of the K.W.O.E Foundation, Owens’ initiative highlights the importance of addressing community needs during the holiday season and leaves a lasting impact on families in need.
Owens, who didn’t have the typical holiday experiences many cherish, shared his personal motivation for the drive. “I wasn’t able to be with my mom for the holidays, so it really meant a lot to me to be able to create lasting memories for them and give back,” he explained. Driven by this sentiment, Owens first launched his turkey giveaway in 2022, aiming to spread cheer and support for those who, like him, may not have had the chance to fully enjoy holiday festivities. Through his efforts, he hopes to create meaningful connections and holiday moments that resonate with families in a memorable way. “It was a blessing to be able to help families in need and put smiles on their faces,” he shared.
Held at Chicago’s Building Bright Futures Center for the Arts, the turkey drive saw a line of families eagerly awaiting the Thanksgiving meals Owens had prepared. Each family received bags filled with traditional holiday staples, including turkeys and all the trimmings. But Owens didn’t stop there; he took to the streets, distributing meals to passing cars and buses, bringing the holiday spirit to those on the go. Owens reflected on the experience with joy, saying, “The holidays are just a great time to try and bless people, give people a great experience, see some smiles on kids’ faces, and just feel like a part of the community.” His warmth and enthusiasm brought a sense of unity to the event, making each interaction a memorable one.
The initiative speaks to Owens’ passion for giving back, but it also serves as a source of inspiration for the community. When he spoke to a young football player who was about to graduate, Owens offered advice he hoped would guide the player’s future. He expressed how “just a small nugget like that, of information and advice, could change someone’s life.” This mentorship moment highlighted Owens’ dedication not only to physical nourishment but also to supporting the next generation.
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Through his annual turkey drive, Owens has proven that small gestures can create big impacts, helping families enjoy Thanksgiving while strengthening community bonds. Looking ahead, Owens shows no signs of slowing down in his mission to uplift communities. His journey from holiday hardships to creating moments of joy for others underscores the power of resilience and generosity.
