Buffalo Bills Star Dion Dawkins Hosts 716 Day Event In MLK Park

Buffalo is full of people who truly love the community. You can see it every day as you drive through the neighborhoods of Western New York. We're fortunate to have many people in the region who love Buffalo.

That was fully displayed on Tuesday, July 16, 2024, as Western New York celebrated 716 Day.

Coming from Buffalo's area code numbers, 716 Day is celebrated every year on July 16th, and Buffalonians near and far do all sorts of things. Retail shops and restaurants offer special discounts for folks. Community groups put on all sorts of fun and family-friendly activities to help people express their love for Buffalo, which was front and center thanks to one of the biggest Buffalo backers.

When he's not pancaking defensive linemen while protecting Josh Allen on the gridiron, NFL All-Star Dion Dawkins is going out of his way to make sure Buffalo is honored and celebrated. On 716 Day, through his foundation Dion's Dreamers, Dawkins teamed up with Trusted Gives to host the 716 CommUNITY Day in Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Park on Buffalo's eastside.

The commUNITY day featured many great and fun activities for children and families. Dozens of non-profits and community groups on site helped people build their communities and support each other.

Several restaurants, including Fat Bobs BBQ, Audley’s Caribbean Cuisine, Illio Di Paolos, BW's Chicken BBQ, and more, offered free food and beverages. All sorts of healthy food options, like fruits and veggies, were available, along with free clothes and household supplies. People at the park were able to get free haircuts, and the groups gave away 50 bicycles to kids in attendance.

Dion was on hand, taking photos with fans and interacting with kids. It was a great event overall, and you can check out the photos below.

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