Linebacker Mike Peterson sponsors Thanksgiving dinners for Alachua families

Atlanta Falcons Linebacker Michael Peterson (left) and Hitchcock’s Market’s Candi Kish (right) are joined by Alachua family Gloria and Michelle Garcia (Center).

ALACHUA – Atlanta Falcons LB Mike Peterson, a 14-year veteran of the NFL, is helping celebrate the Thanksgiving holiday season in his hometown of Alachua by providing a little holiday cheer for 100 pre-selected, under-served families.

Tuesday evening, each of the 100 families received a special greeting and holiday dinner basket from Peterson and his wife, Chantal, at Hitchcock’s Supermarket on U.S. Highway 441 in Alachua.

Participating families, who were identified in cooperation with Alachua County Schools, have children enrolled at Alachua Elementary, W.W. Irby Elementary, A.L. Mebane Middle and Santa Fe High Schools.

The 2012 Thanksgiving Holiday Celebration is sponsored by Hitchcock’s Markets and their vendors. Hitchcock’s Markets, serving this area for over 60 years, operates 11 locations throughout North Central Florida, and is active in community oriented activities.

Tuesday evening, Hitchcock’s Representative Candi Kish said, “We like to contribute in this way because it directly benefits numerous families in our community.”

Founder of the Mike Peterson Foundation, Peterson and his wife Chantal, are dedicated to improving the quality of life and promoting the positive development of youth through football and other community outreach projects similar to the holiday program.

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