NATIONAL CITY, Calif. – (November 21, 2025) – With the spirit of giving back, the Sycuan Band of the Kumeyaay Nation partnered with San Diego FC and National School District to distribute 1,000 turkeys to pre-selected families on Thursday, November 20. The drive-thru style event took place from 9 to 11 a.m. at the Best Western Plus Marina Gateway Hotel.
Families with students attending one of ten designated schools in the National School District, Integrity Charter, National City Middle and Granger Junior High were pre-selected to receive vouchers for the event. Participants lined up as early as 8 a.m. to collect their turkey and a complimentary SDFC bag.
“The National School District Governing Board is so thankful for the long-term partnership of the Sycuan Band of the Kumeyaay Nation in this event every year,” Michelle Gates, Board President of the National School District said. “Sycuan’s continued commitment to NSD students and families makes a real and beautiful difference.”
Sycuan Tribal Chairman Cody Martinez, the Sycuan Tribal Council members, National School District Board Clerk Barbara Avalos, and San Diego FC leaders – including Brandon Clark, Executive Vice President of Marketing; Dike Anyiwo, Director of Community Impact; and Joel Katz, Vice President of Community Impact – helped distribute the turkeys to families during the event.
The event is part of ongoing efforts by the Sycuan Band of the Kumeyaay Nation and community partners to support local families during Thanksgiving, helping to provide the main dish on the holiday table.
To learn more about the Sycuan Band of the Kumeyaay Nation, please visit www.sycuantribe.com.