LYNN ― This holiday season, resident Michael Quintana continues with his tradition of giving back to the community by buying and delivering turkeys to local families and schools.
On Tuesday afternoon, Quintana, 33, stopped by the Lynn Classical High School (LCHS) to drop off 22 turkeys at his alma mater. He is planning to donate, in total, more than 100 turkeys this year.
LCHS has identified students whose families would gladly accept some help this Thanksgiving and the turkeys will be distributed to them, school social worker Jessica Rousselle said.
“You are okay for the holidays this year because you have one thing less to worry about ― that’s what it is all about,” said Quintana.
Nine years ago, he started this annual Thanksgiving tradition with 12 turkeys. While growing up, Quintana received help and support from the Lynn community and his coaches at LCHS, so he wanted to give back as soon as he became financially stable.
Over the years, Quintana donated as many as 250 birds a year, with the help of other donors from the community and his business’ clients. He delivers individual turkeys personally to families and is planning to stop at Lynn English High School, Fecteau-Leary Junior/Senior High School, the Demakes Family YMCA and the Boy’s & Girl’s Club this year.
After working as a train conductor with the MBTA, Quintana is currently preparing to open a fitness and nutrition business of his own called INNERGY at the former Welch’s Florist location on Essex St.
“My intention is to find ways to stay involved in the community,” said Quintana.
He added that he wants to provide a space for the community to feel like it has another avenue to get away from the negativity.
