Hip-hop star Nicki Minaj has donated $15,000 (£9,375) to a New York charity in a bid to help feed the needy over America's Thanksgiving holiday this Thursday (22Nov12).

The Starships hitmaker announced the news during an appearance on U.S. show 106 & Park on Monday (19Nov12), and signed a cheque for the Food Bank of New York City.

The funds will aid organisation officials as they serve up hot meals for the homeless and those still struggling in the aftermath of superstorm Sandy.

Monday was a big day of giving for Minaj - she also spread a little Thanksgiving cheer by returning to her Queens elementary school to hand out free turkeys to struggling locals.