Oakland City Councilwoman Desley Brooks is giving holiday baskets to 1,000 Oakland families again this Thanksgiving. Brooks, along with sports agent Aaron Goodwin and The Goodwin Family Foundation, started adopting Oakland families six years ago when they recognized a growing need in the community.

“Many of their friends and neighbors are finding it difficult to make ends meet,” said Goodwin.

“Aaron and I love this event; it reminds us of what the season is supposed to be about – giving thanks and family, neighbors and friends pulling together and sharing,” said Brooks.

A family event, Goodwin’s and Brooks’ families, their church families, and community partners are pitching in to assemble and distribute the baskets.

“Growing up, it was common for neighbors to share during the holidays,” said Goodwin. “Each turkey basket will be filled with all the trimmings for families to make their Thanksgiving meal.”

To be eligible to receive a holiday basket, applicants must be: 1) an Oakland resident; 2) during the last 30 days have a family income that is less than 200 percent of the federal poverty level; or 3) unemployed.

To sign up, bring or fax proof of residency and proof of income to the following locations no later than Nov. 7. Failure to provide all of the required documentation will make applicants ineligible for a basket.

Only one holiday basket will be given to a household Sign-up at one of the following locations: Councilwoman Desley Brooks 1 Frank Ogawa Plaza, 2nd Floor Oakland (510) 238-7006 (510) 986-2650 (f); Arroyo Viejo Recreation Center 7701 Krause St. Oakland (510) 615-5755 (510) 615-5882 (f); Rainbow Recreation Center 5700 International Blvd. Oakland (510) 615-5751 (510) 636-1562 (f); Manzanita Recreation Center 2701 East 27th St. Oakland, (510) 535-5625.

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