A total of 500 turkeys were distributed at an annual Thanksgiving event in Stamford on Sunday.

The Stamford Downtown Parade Spectacular is always a fun tradition in the community. Due to COVID-19, the balloons did not fly this year, but the spirit of giving thanks still filled in the air.

However, some parade traditions remained like music, clowns, dancers. There was even a balloon and a very special float.

"We were really disappointed to not be able to bring the parade spectacular to the community this year. And so in lieu of that, we decided to provide them with a giving float. And so we partnered with Person to Person [to] identify 500 families in need," said David Kooris, president of Stamford Downtown.

The "Giving Float" provided those in need with a bag with a turkey, gift cards, batteries, masks, along with a little holiday cheer.

"These are all people that are struggling to make ends meet. Many have lost their jobs because of the pandemic or are unable to work because of the pandemic and have lost income. So having a turkey on Thanksgiving is a tremendous tradition for them and it makes everybody feel happy, and brings a little joy into what's otherwise a really difficult time for a lot of people," said Nancy Coughlin, CEO of Person to Person.

Person to Person is on track to provide 2 million meals to Stamford and Norwalk residents this year.

"The Community has been very generous and has come out to support people. So, that's the silver lining of this pandemic, but the need is tremendous," Coughlin said.

Volunteers of New Wave Seafood provided their refrigerated truck to transport the 500 turkeys, along with other donations from the community.

Person to Person expects the need for food will increase this winter.