The Anibal Ramos Jr. Civic Association joined with Newark North Ward Councilman Anibal Ramos Jr. and other elected officials to distribute hundreds of turkeys to needy residents in Newark.

The turkey distribution began on Monday, Nov. 23 at senior citizen buildings in the North Ward as well as Casa Israel Medical Daycare Center.

The turkeys were purchased with donations from ARJ Civic along with Mayor Ras Baraka, Councilman-at-Large Luis Quintana, Councilman Carlos Gonzalez, state Sen. M. Teresa Ruiz and Assemblywomen L. Grace Spencer and Eliana Pintor Marin as well as the Hispanic Law Enforcement Society of Essex County.

The turkey distribution has become an annual North Ward tradition since Ramos was first elected to the City Council in 2006.

"It's important that we not forget about those who are less fortunate at Thanksgiving," Ramos said. "I want to thank my colleagues who stepped up and generously donated so families could enjoy a traditional Thanksgiving meal this year."