ELMIRA, NY (WENY) - The Elmira Pioneers took the lead Friday afternoon in helping community members in need. 

From noon until 2 p.m., the local baseball team distributed holiday-themed goods at the Family Center. Hats, blankets, coats, and gloves were given out this afternoon alongside a free holiday meal. 

Pioneers owner Robbie Nichols loved organizing the event this year. He loved lending his community a helping hand. 

“It's great,” Nichols said. “When you see these people come through today, they could really use a coat and could really use some gloves and hats for the winter.” 

Nichols kickstarted the event to honor his father. He says his dad's work reminds him why giving back is so important. 

“My dad used to work for the food bank his entire life and he passed away a couple of years ago so we started doing this in his memory and it makes our heart feel good today,” Nichols said. “We have a lot of volunteers helping out, passing out the goodies to the people so it's a real special day for us.” 

Robbie hopes to continue the event as an annual tradition. Nichols and the Pioneers plan to give back to the Elmira community again next December.