Colts Distribute 2K Thanksgiving Meals

Darrius Heyward-Bey is usually on the receiving end of Andrew Luck passes when he suits up at Lucas Oil Stadium.

But, wearing his number 81 jersey, Tuesday, the Colts wide receiver was giving out Thanksgiving meals to families who otherwise would not have one.

"It's a blessing for me to be out here to give back," he said. "I know these people have an opportunity to meet us, but also an opportunity for me to give back, to give food to people who need it is always good."

The Colts gave away free meals to families in need as part of its second “Horseshoe Helpings” event.

Heyward-Bey says it’s important for the organization to support the community, especially during the holidays.

"(The families) are just saying 'thank you.  Thank you for coming out.'  I'm just telling them, 'thank you for being who you are, for being great fans.'  I'm more proud to be out here giving out food to them," said Heyward-Bey.  "You have to be thankful for everything.  Take nothing for granted and understand that you have to take every day one day at a time."

Each family received a turkey, pumpkin pie, five pound bag of potatoes, corn, green beans, stuffing, cranberry sauce and gravy.

Senior Director of Marketing Stephanie Pemberton says it was important for the franchise to allow families to have what they need to celebrate the holiday at home together.

"We felt like giving the actual food that they can actually go back and cook with their family and enjoy that gathering together on Thanksgiving was where we could make the biggest impact," said Pemberton.  "So far we've gotten great response for it."

Joining the Colts players were 100 community volunteers who helped distribute more than 43,000 pounds of food.