Governor Polis Pardons Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid in Colorado’s Third Annual Turkey Pardon, Emphasizes Importance of Supporting Colorado Agriculture and Families in[...]

Governor's Office hosts food drive to support Colorado families ahead of the Thanksgiving holiday

DENVER - Today, with the power vested in him through the Colorado constitution, Governor Polis pardoned Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid, two Colorado-raised turkeys from Jodar Farms, saving them from the Thanksgiving dinner table and granting them a full life at Luvin Arms sanctuary. The Governor was joined by First Gentleman Marlon Reis, Lt. Governor Dianne Primavera, Commissioner of Agriculture Kate Greenberg, as well as FFA Colorado State Officers, 4-H Members, and Gold Star families in honor of Veterans Day.

"In Colorado we value freedom, almost as much as these birds do. Thanksgiving brings together family, friends, and loved ones over delicious food, reminding us to be thankful for what we have and give back to our communities. From pumpkins, to meat, potatoes, and breads, local farmers and ranchers work year round to keep delicious and healthy food on our tables during the holiday season and every day. As we gather at our tables I encourage Coloradans to reflect on what we are grateful for and find ways to give back to our community, including supporting our local food banks and pantries," said Colorado Governor and Turkey Pardoner-In-Chief Jared Polis.

"As you set your table this Thanksgiving, notice all the ways agriculture makes it possible. Today's turkey pardon is a wonderful way to highlight Colorado's agricultural heritage and history," said Commissioner Kate Greenberg. "We also know that many families are struggling to access the food they need due to the federal cuts in the SNAP program. We're proud to help Governor Polis kick off this week's food drive and help connect more Colorado families with safe and healthy food. Colorado's farmers and ranchers are integral to ensuring food security in our state. This holiday season, let's thank our farmers and find ways to support our neighbors in need."

The event also served as a food drive to support Colorado families facing threats to food access ahead of the Thanksgiving holiday. The food drive, hosted by the Governor's office, will run from November 10-14. Anyone interested in donating and supporting others can bring food to the Governor's Office at the State Capitol. The Capitol will be closed on Tuesday, November 11 in observance of Veterans Day. This is especially important as the federal government withholds critical food access for Coloradans, over half of whom are children. Food donated will be given to the Village Exchange Center, who will distribute it to Colorado families.

The Sundance Kid (22lbs, M)

Butch Cassidy (22lbs, M)

The two turkeys came from Jodar Farms in Fort Collins, which is known for providing quality products to some of the best restaurants in Fort Collins. Jodar Farms provided one of the turkeys pardoned in 2024, Fred. Following the pardon, they were transported to Luvin Arms sanctuary where they will live out their lives among other rescued animals. The two turkeys were named after a vote of Coloradans on the Governor's social media pages. Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid were treated to a night's stay at the Governor's Mansion, just as the turkeys that came before them have enjoyed.

The Colorado Department of Agriculture's seasonal maps of farmers' markets, farm stands, and other places to find Colorado-grown produce, meats, and other products can help Coloradans shop locally this year.

Click here to read the Governor's full proclamation.

###