Chicago Bears Reportedly Donate Thanksgiving Dinner to 600 Veterans and their Families.

In a heartfelt display of gratitude, the Chicago Bears, in collaboration with Miller Lite and Jewel-Osco, came together on November 15 for their annual “Turkey Drop” to donate Thanksgiving dinners to 600 veterans and their families.

The event, held at a Jewel-Osco location in Chicago, was organized to benefit **The Salvation Army, whose mission is deeply rooted in serving those who have served the nation.

Among the volunteers were some familiar faces: Bears chairman George H. McCaskey, former players James “Big Cat” Williams, Chris Zorich, and Christian Jones, along with the spirited Chicago Bears Drumline.

Together, they handed out boxed Thanksgiving meals — complete with turkeys and all the trimmings — as well as cozy extras like hats, gloves, and scarves, helping to make the holiday a little warmer for military families.

The annual Turkey Drop has become a meaningful tradition for the Bears and their partners. Hosted in partnership with The Salvation Army’s North & Central Illinois Division, the event underscores the organizations’ mutual commitment to giving back. For veterans, picking up a dinner isn’t just about the food — it’s a symbolic thank-you for their service.

For Miller Lite, the initiative also reflects a broader effort to support veterans across the country. Last year, the beer brand joined forces with the Bears, Jewel-Osco, and the Road Home Program (a center for veterans and their families at Rush University Medical Center) to serve 400 military families.Their support included meals with turkeys, canned goods, potatoes, stuffing — even $20 gift cards to Jewel-Osco.

The Salvation Army played a central role in coordinating the distribution, using its existing channels to reach out to military families in need. The pick-up was designed for veterans, requiring registration and valid ID.

At the heart of the event was a sense of community and genuine recognition. The Bears’ involvement — from Executives to alumni to the drumline — brought extra attention and energy to the initiative. It’s more than a charity drive; it’s a tradition that honors veterans in a very personal way.

For many of the 600 families who benefited, the Turkey Drop meant not just a warm meal, but a reminder: their sacrifices are seen, remembered, and deeply appreciated — especially during the season of giving.