Abner Mares, the former three-division World Champion Boxer (Bantamweight, Super Bantamweight & Featherweight divisions), was honored with proclamations and keys to the city of Bell Gardens and Irwindale at his third annual Thanksgiving meal giveaway.
#OperationGobble fed over 500 families in Bell Gardens, Hawaiian Gardens and other communities throughout southeast Los Angeles. Families received full Thanksgiving meals, with another 1500 families and community groups receiving turkey vouchers.
“Our community benefits greatly from the generosity shown by Abner Mares and Del Records,” said Congresswoman Lucille Roybal-Allard, who presented a Certificate of Congressional Recognition to Mares during the event. “Abner is a champion who has never forgotten his community, and he has shown that again in his support of Operation Gobble, giving many local families a Thanksgiving they would not otherwise have had.”
Mayor Jennifer Rodriguez of Bell Gardens presented Mares with the key to the city with members of the Bell Gardens City Council.
“Sometimes people lose where they come from, not Abner Mares,” Rodriguez said. “He is always willing to give back to those in need, and that speaks to you Abner and your parents. You are a champion human being and a champion in boxing. Thank you for helping to fulfill the needs of a community.”
Council member Victor Farfan of the City of Hawaiian Gardens gave Mares the “Inspirational Hero” award from the city and proclaimed Mares, “…a hero, making the world a better place for tomorrow.” Abner also received a key to the city of Irwindale and the La Puente City Certificate at the event. La Puente Councilmember David E. Argudo said, “Abner is an example of the American Dream, that dream is not all about success but, as Abner demonstrates, the passion of making a difference in the eyes of others.”
After receiving the awards, Abner said, “This means more than any title in boxing. Seeing the faces of the people when they get their turkey is better than any gift or title I could receive. I’m blessed to be able to help them have a happy Thanksgiving.”
Helping hand out meals were actor Rafael de la Fuente (Michael Sanchez on “Empire,” “Grachi”), actor Bernardo Saracino (Manuel Diaz in Sicario) and Sol Rodriguez (upcoming “Urban Cowboy” movie, “Grachi,” “Tierra de Reyes” and upcoming “You’re Going To Miss Me”), as well as members of DEL Records, the leading Regional Mexican record label.
Companies donating items included Bonert’s pies (pumpkin pies), Progressive produce (russet potatoes), La Gloria (corn tortillas), Hoy Fong Foods (Siracha sauce), Bimbo (dinner rolls) and DEL Records.
The event was produced by Monique Gonzales.
