Housing ReliefCertain organizations know that not every family has the luxury of putting their own food on the table. This can be especially true during Thanksgiving, which can be quite an expensive holiday when it comes to food.
Which organizations can give your family a full Thanksgiving meal or some of the holiday’s supplies at no cost? Here they are:
United Way
With over 1,800 United Way local offices around the world, you’re bound to find one near you.
While this organization works year-round, they’re particularly helpful in filling families’ stomachs during the holiday season.
Depending on where you live, your United Way may have events where local volunteers give out hearty holiday meals or host turkey drives.
In Palm Beach County, Florida, for example, Project Thanksgiving has helped low-income families indulge in all of the holiday’s goodies for the last 29 years.
Food Banks
Have you done your best to save up for a turkey, but just can’t buy one? A turkey drive from your local food bank could solve that issue. They could also help by giving you and your loved ones a full Thanksgiving meal.
Turkey distribution dates vary according to location. You can find your local food bank here to see how the process works.
Depending on the food bank, there may be some eligibility requirements that take your family’s income into account.
Churches
You may be able to find free Thanksgiving lunch or dinner from your nearest church or faith-based group. If you are not religious, do not worry, as most will not discriminate based on religion, race, or similar factors.
Churches and their members get together during the holidays to not only celebrate, but also to help those in need. In other words, if your family needs Thanksgiving food, don’t hesitate to visit your local church to find some.
The food offered by churches can vary. It often comes from members and volunteers, but local stores and restaurants can also provide food for the occasion.
Salvation Army
You may know the Salvation Army from its volunteers that ring bells in front of stores seeking donations. But did you know that this organization also offers free Thanksgiving meals?
They do, and much of the food served comes from donations from the public plus local stores and businesses.
If you choose the Salvation Army for your free Thanksgiving meal, you will likely enjoy it at a specific, predetermined site. If you or a loved one are sick or elderly, however, you could get your meal delivered in a food box.
During the dinner, be sure to ask around about the Salvation Army’s other social services. You can sign up for them to receive additional help during the holidays in the form of food or even coats to help with the winter cold.
You can find your local Salvation Army here.
Regardless of which avenue you choose for your free Thanksgiving food, be sure to keep in touch with the people you meet. They can inform you of other programs to help you and your family year-round.
