Jackson neighborhood get surprise turkey dinners

Consumers Energy went door to door in Jackson on Wednesday, but not to read your meter - they handed out turkeys.

Employees of the energy company delivered 150 Thanksgiving dinners to 616 customers in Jackson.

Dinners were packed fresh on Wednesday morning and delivered between 9 a.m. and 11 a.m. on the block of 200 First St. in Jackson.

The reason behind the kind donation was to thank customers for their patience and cooperation during 2018 natural gas reliability projects performed by Consumers.

Brian Wheeler, Senior Public Information Director Consumers Energy/CMS Energy explained that the 2018 work included replacing vintage natural gas mains, services and/or meters in some Jackson neighborhoods. Also, that employees replaced over 18,000 feet of pipe and 1,100 service lines that run to homes.

The employees raised over $17,500 for the meals which include a turkey with numerous side dishes.

This was the fifth year for the food drive which is completely employee driven.

"In 5 years, employees have raised over $70,000 and handed out over 2,600 dinners," said Wheeler.

Consumers Energy handed out over 600 dinners across Michigan.