ABC News Today

BUFFALO, NY – They say giving is the best gift of all.

“We felt it was kind of our obligation, as athletes here at Syracuse University. We have this privilege to do that,” Syracuse track and field runner Emanuel Joseph said.

That’s why Syracuse University student-athletes made the two-hour drive to Buffalo Sunday afternoon for a turkey giveaway, to give back to those in East Buffalo who feel a part of them is missed this holiday season.

“People will be looking at tables and chairs that are absent and missing loved ones who were affected as a result of the mass shooting,” said Bethel AME Pastor Paul Thomas, who helped plan the event. “This way of showing love helps add a little medicine.”

That love is needed even more now as the community remembers the 10 lives lost six months ago on Monday.

Tragedy touched these athletes, some from a mile away as well as those from 4,000 miles away.

“It’s a tragedy that happened, but the community has been affected for much longer. Obviously, it’s still affected by this,” said Luisa Gathmann, a rower from Syracuse, Germany.

Buffalo native rower Reilly Eagan added, “I really wanted to support. It was very encouraging to me that even my Syracuse community was willing to reach out and lend a hand to Buffalo .

The helping hand didn’t go unnoticed, as those who came to pick up their turkeys said the gesture will allow them to experience the happiest time of the year despite everything they’ve had to overcome to get here.

“We need to have more people like that in this world,” said Buffalo resident Andrea Barnett. “We must have more givers than takers, we really do, because if those who have give, no one would need it.”