Redding Rancheria gives over 500 turkeys and board games to families this holiday season

REDDING, Calif. — There are presents and meals, and, yes, shopping, but Christmas can have a much deeper meaning.

It was really all about family at the Redding Rancheria's annual event, where the theme was "Turkeys & Games." New this year: board games were distributed to bring families together.

"After you eat, you could have a board game, get together as a family, instead of an individual gift, because we were only doing gifts up to 12 years old. And, some parents were like, 'well, I have a 13-year-old, 14-year-old.' But, this way, it's something that the whole family can enjoy together," said Redding Rancheria's Tribal Chairman Jack Potter, Jr.

Some 500 frozen turkeys, and as many games, were given out to Northstate families and many grateful parents.

"It helps quite a bit," said one recipient, Breanna Fidler. "I've got four kids, so, working full-time and trying to make sure everything is set up for them. They're going to enjoy the game."

"It means we get to have Christmas Dinner that we weren't going to have. So, it means a lot to our family," Bobbie Battles told Mangas.

"And how about the game?" Mangas asked Battles.

"The game is a plus," Battles answered. "We get to do something after dinner, or before dinner while we're waiting."

Tribal Chairman Jack Potter Jr. says it's part of his, and the tribe's, culture: if you have extra, share it.

"We, as Native Americans, remember standing in these lines. I, personally, stood in them as a young child; as a young adult when I started my family. And, we have extra resources. So, if you have it, give back. During this time, people are in need. There's a need. Every day there's a need. And, especially, this time of year, they're overwhelmed. And, if turkey can help you out, or a game board can help you out, then a purpose has been served," Chairman Potter, Jr. explained.

Jack says they were limited to 500 turkeys because of the national turkey shortage. But, next year, they plan to help more families by buying the turkeys well ahead of time.

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