Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg and Macy’s today announced approximately 5,000 seats in bleachers along the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade route will go to families who have been impacted by Hurricane Sandy. Distribution of the tickets will be coordinated by local elected officials who represent the neighborhoods hardest hit by Sandy, and transportation to and from the parade will be provided by Macy’s.

“Thanksgiving is a time to enjoy friends and family and reflect on life’s blessings, but this will be a particularly difficult holiday for many New Yorkers who suffered terrible losses as a result of Hurricane Sandy,” said Mayor Bloomberg. “So many people have been donating their time, energy, and resources to helping families hit hard by the storm recover, and we hope that taking part in a tradition like the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade will make their holiday just a little brighter.”

“For 86 years, Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade has served as a beacon of hope, renewal and entertainment for New Yorkers and the nation,” said Amy Kule, Macy’s Parade executive producer. “A holiday tradition that brings together millions in reflection and celebration, it is our ultimate hope that we can provide some comfort to those most affected by Hurricane Sandy and that they leave the parade knowing that our 8,000 marchers, the City and the nation are behind them as they recover from this devastating storm.”