A Simple Request That Sparked a 34-Year Tradition

ICR’s long-standing Thanksgiving Turkey Drive began over 3 decades ago with a simple but powerful request. While serving on the United Way board, Robert Lovingood, CEO of ICR, met Lois Fox, founder of the Good Samaritan program. After watching her provide meals, clothing, and support to local families, he asked when she needed help. Lois’s reply was “Always. And I could really use turkeys at Thanksgiving,” launching what has now become one of the High Desert’s most enduring holiday traditions.

Since then, ICR has partnered with local businesses and community organizations to provide Thanksgiving turkeys to families across Victorville, Adelanto, Hesperia, Apple Valley, and surrounding communities. What started as 60–80 turkeys in the early years has grown tremendously. Over 34 years, more than 10,000 turkeys have been distributed, with nearly 500 more added this season.

“This effort has always been personal for me,” Robert shared. “There is tremendous value in creating one moment—a single meal—where a family can sit together, share time, and feel cared for.”

Reaching Families Through Trusted Community Partners

To ensure meals reach those who need them most, ICR collaborates with trusted partners, including Rock’n Our Disabilities Foundation, High Desert Second Chance Food Bank, God’s House Church, A Better Way Domestic Violence Shelter, and Victor Valley College’s Thrive Resource Center.

This year’s distribution was made possible through generous support from Advance Disposal, Northwest Pipe, CalPortland, Flavor House, Mitsubishi Cement, Rotary Club, International Carbonic, Plastipak, Robar, Tel-Craft, Sophie Steeno, and Joseph Suarez. Walmart employees also assisted by helping load turkeys and streamlining the distribution process.

Looking ahead, Robert says the mission will only grow. “This year was one of our most successful yet, and next year we’re setting a goal of 1,000 turkeys,” he said.

Through dedication, partnership, and a tradition that began with one heartfelt request, ICR continues to bring warmth, comfort, and hope to families across the High Desert each Thanksgiving.