Mississippi Governor Pardons Turkey for Extra Table Charity

Annual Turkey Pardon Ceremony

• 👑 The Governor's Mansion hosted the fourth annual turkey pardoning ceremony, a tradition supporting the Extra Table nonprofit.
• 🤝 Extra Table works across Mississippi to combat hunger and support those in need, with the state expressing gratitude for their generosity.

Supporting Extra Table's Mission

• 💰 For a $15 donation, individuals can help provide three chickens for a family this Thanksgiving, a more cost-effective alternative to turkeys.
• 🐔 Extra Table aims to distribute 9,000 chickens and holiday meals to families across Mississippi, a goal they are working to meet.
• 🏦 Renaissance Bank, a long-time partner, expressed pride in supporting Extra Table since its inception.

The Pardoned Turkey: Hercules

• 👦 The turkey, named Hercules, was chosen by young men from the Schneur family.
• 📜 Governor Tate Reeves officially granted Hercules a full, complete, and unconditional pardon, absolving him from Thanksgiving consequences.

Extra Table's Impact and Needs

• 🚚 Extra Table is preparing for the "Henny 9000" road trip to distribute chickens directly to food pantry partners.
• 🍽️ The organization is the only non-government subsidized food bank in Mississippi, shipping approximately $95,000 worth of food monthly.
• 📈 In response to increased need, Extra Table is doubling its donation to food pantry partners, shipping $200,000 worth of food.
• 🌾 This includes 35,000 pounds of rice, six trucks of sweet potatoes, and the 9,000 chickens.
• 🏠 The organization highlights that 52% of Mississippi households are ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed), emphasizing the critical need for support.

Broader Context and Call to Action

• 🙏 Thanksgiving is a time to reflect and give thanks, especially for the charitable spirit of Mississippians.
• 🇺🇸 Gratitude is extended to service members, law enforcement, and first responders who ensure safety for holiday gatherings.
• 📉 Governor Reeves noted challenges with food insecurity in Mississippi, exacerbated by a lack of federal funding for SNAP programs.
• 🌟 He urged continued support for food banks and organizations like Extra Table, emphasizing that meals matter and dollars make the difference.