BRONX N.Y. — Several WWE Superstars stepped out of the ring and into the Soundview community on Monday, joining Food Bank For NYC to distribute hundreds of turkeys, fresh produce, hygiene kits, and essential household supplies to families preparing for Thanksgiving.
The event, held Nov. 17 at 1105 Morrison Ave., was part of Food Bank’s mobile pantry program—supported by the Grubhub Community Fund—which continues to meet skyrocketing need across the five boroughs.
For many New Yorkers, the holidays bring growing financial strain as SNAP delays push families into crisis. Even before the recent government shutdown, Food Bank For NYC’s 800+ pantries saw double the pre-pandemic visits.
WWE Superstars Maxxine Dupri, Otis, Akira Tozawa, and Women’s Champion Stephanie Vaquer helped distribute food and connect with residents, emphasizing the importance of giving back—especially as many in the community are still recovering from missed paychecks.
“This is so much bigger than all of us and so much bigger than a TV show,” said Maxxine Dupri, before going on to win the WWE Women’s Intercontinental Championship at Madison Square Garden the next day. “This is about humans in our community who need our help. To be here and give even a little bit of that help is the best thing in the world.”
For Otis, giving back is second nature. “We’re here to give at the Food Bank For NYC again, baby—that’s what we do during the holiday season,” he said. “My parents taught me young: always give back and share the pie.”
WWE Women’s World Champion Stephanie Vaquer, originally from Chile and celebrating her first Thanksgiving in the U.S., said the day felt especially meaningful. “People are always supporting me. This is my time to give back,” she said. “America is my home now. I’m so happy to help the community.”
The Superstars helped hand out turkeys, chicken, produce, and pantry staples—food that families say will make the difference between a holiday meal and an empty table. Maxxine also highlighted a $10,000 gift from The General in support of Food Bank For NYC’s work.
“To be able to give families even a bit of security this holiday season—it’s the best thing,” she said. “Seeing moms and kids in line, knowing you’re making a difference… I don’t have words.”
The event was covered by News 12 Bronx and Fox 5 NY.
