Well-known NYC rapper Joseph Cartagena, better known as Fat Joe, has announced a Thanksgiving food drive scheduled for Tuesday, November 26, 2024.
Fat Joe first launched his apparel brand, UP NYC, which specializes in sneakers and streetwear for men, women, and children. The brand currently operates three locations across New York City.
“As UP NYC continues to grow, we remain focused on the needs of our customers while staying aligned with emerging lifestyle and fashion trends, which are key to success and longevity,” stated the brand’s website.
The Thanksgiving food drive will take place at the UP NYC store in Washington Heights, where Fat Joe himself will distribute food to underprivileged families. Around 5,000 families are expected to benefit, receiving popular Thanksgiving staples such as turkeys, ham, pasta, rice, fresh produce, canned goods, and more.
In a brief exchange with TMZ, Fat Joe expressed his pride in hosting the event, describing it as one of his proudest moments as a native New Yorker. He also hinted at another food drive, reportedly called a “Turkey Drive,” planned for the near future, which is expected to feed thousands more.
Additionally, Fat Joe will also be handing out gift cards for families to use from either Bravo Supermarkets or CTown Supermarkets. Fat Joe is no stranger to giving back to his community. Last year, the rapper donated over $100,000 worth of brand-new school clothes to South Bronx students during a clothing drive at The Eagle Academy for Young Men.
“What we’re telling them is that you can become successful, but you don’t have to leave where you’re from. You can stay in your community and inspire the youth because sometimes all they need is a little push, a little inspiration,” said Fat Joe.
