N.E. Patriots linebacker Adalius Thomas donates turkeys to local families

New England Patriots Linebacker Adalius Thomas, above, is working hard to make an impact on local communities.

During his third annual charity event to benefit Boston youths, Thomas donated 350 Thanksgiving turkeys to Mattapan families --- courtesy of the Adalius Thomas Foundation. On Nov. 19, Adalius joined dozens of young students and their parents at the Mattahunt elementary school to hand out turkeys.

"Community service is very important to me," said Thomas. "I grew up with a father who was always giving to others who were less fortunate than us. He instilled those values in me. I have made it my priority to step away from the privileged and offer my services to those who are in need. This is something I am committed to do for as long as I possibly can."

"This was a tremendous opportunity for these families," said Brenda Brathwaite, regional director for Building Educated Leaders for Life (BELL), which partnered with Thomas and Randy Moss earlier this fall when they donated backpacks with school supplies to youth at the Dorchester Boys and Girls Club. "Not only is he a phenomenal athlete, but he is equally an outstanding humanitarian. The families were pleased to meet him and we are looking forward to continuing our partnership."