Matthew McConaughey gives back to Houston officials on First Responders Day: 'Today's about saying thank you'

Kerry Justich
·Health and Wellness Staff Writer

Matthew McConaughey gave back to first responders in his hometown of Houston by honoring them with an early Thanksgiving dinner.

On Sunday’s First Responders Day — an official day in Texas and in many other states that many hope will become National First Responders Day through the efforts of an ongoing campaign — the actor teamed up with bourbon brand Wild Turkey for its second annual Wild Turkey Gives Back campaign. For his part, McConaughey decided to head to Texas to honor those who helped salvage the community after Hurricane Harvey hit in August 2017.

In videos posted to his Facebook page, McConaughey talks about the importance of first responders, especially during times of natural disaster, and then surprises officials with a feast.

“What we’re doing is going around to different first responders in the city of Houston, who were the first responders when Hurricane Harvey hit,” he said in the live video. “Today’s about saying thank you to these people that were all on the front line, and got out there to rescue people first.”

Throughout the day, McConaughey visited firefighters, police officers, 911 operators, and emergency room doctors and nurses who were all onsite during the storm, which made landfall as Category 4. Although he acknowledges Houston’s continued efforts to rebuild the city, he’s extending his gratitude to the people who played a large role in stabilizing the community when it mattered most. And by the looks on the faces of those he surprised, McConaughey’s efforts meant a lot.

Just a few days prior, the actor joined others in the entertainment industry by posting a video to his social media informing followers that he was in line for early voting.

Seems like he’s in the mood for doing good, and encouraging others to join him.

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