Nipsey Hussle Foundation Gives Away Thousands of Turkeys in L.A.

The Neighborhood Nip Foundation, created to honor the legacy of late rapper and community activist Nipsey Hussle, held its first annual turkey drive on Nov. 25, distributing thousands of turkeys to families in need across South Los Angeles.

According to CBS News, the event marked the foundation’s first major activation from the Slauson Avenue parking lot—ground deeply symbolic to Hussle’s life and career.

“This is where my brother first sold his mixtape,” said Samiel Asghedom, Nipsey’s brother. “He ended up opening businesses in this parking lot and then buying the whole lot. We turned this whole lot into the Neighborhood Nip Foundation. So, it’s real important to be able to activate from here.”

Carrying Forward Nipsey Hussle’s Mission

Launched in 2019, the Neighborhood Nip Hussle Foundation aims to extend Hussle’s legacy through initiatives that uplift under-resourced youth. For the turkey drive, the organization partnered with the Think Watts Foundation to distribute 5,000 turkeys.

The event arrived at a critical time for many families. Although the cost of a Thanksgiving meal dipped slightly from last year, overall food prices remain elevated, stretching households already struggling with inflation.

Rising Food Insecurity Heightens Need

The recent federal government shutdown temporarily disrupted SNAP benefits, leaving many families without essential food support. Community food banks saw spikes in demand as households scrambled to fill the gap.

According to Feeding America’s “Elevating Voices: Insights Report,” food insecurity in the United States is climbing toward levels not seen since the Great Recession. High inflation, economic strain, and the rollback of pandemic-era aid are worsening hunger nationwide.

Key findings from the report include:

• 80% of low-income households have turned to cheaper, less nutritious food because of rising prices.
• 52% ran out of food at some point in the past year.
• 51% delayed rent, utilities, or medical bills in order to afford groceries.

For residents of South Los Angeles, Nipsey Hussle’s foundation stepping in during a difficult season carries deep emotional and cultural weight. The turkey drive not only honored Hussle’s long-standing commitment to his community but also provided relief to families feeling the pressure of rising costs.