PHOENIX — In 2022, 10.2 million American households had trouble with food security, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture. With a rise in food costs and basically everything else, several families may not be able to afford a hot Thanksgiving meal this holiday season.
Several organizations across the Valley are looking to help with that. Whether it is turkey giveaways or a free meal the day of, here's where residents can turn if they need a little extra assistance this holiday season:
St. Mary's Turkey Distribution
On Nov. 20 through Nov. 22, St. Mary's Food Bank will give away turkeys in Phoenix and in Surprise. Residents should bring their valid ID. One turkey will be given per household.
Those who are walking or riding public transportation should bring a cart, as items may be heavy. For those driving, be sure your trunk is clear.
- Phoenix: 3131 West Thomas Road
- Surprise: 13050 W. Elm Street
Vineyard Church North Phoenix Thanksgiving Basket Giveaway
On the Tuesday before Thanksgiving, Vineyard Church North Phoenix will giveaway Thanksgiving meal baskets. Residents in need should preregister with the church to ensure there are enough supplies.
In addition to the food items, there will be games, free clothing and free hot dog meals.
Anyone who wants to volunteer to donate or bag items can click here to register.
3rd Annual Guajoloton Gracias Arizona turkey giveaway and festival
Prensa Arizona along with it’s presenting sponsors: Libre Initiative, Arizona Lottery, Raza Development Fund and Celerion will host the 3rd Annual Guajoloton Gracias Arizona turkey giveaway and festival on Saturday, Nov. 18, 2023 at Barrio Unidos Park, located at 1501 East Mohave Street in Phoenix.
Approximately 1,000 turkeys will be distributed to families and attendees in need.
Vaccines, prizes, giveaways, kids activities, resources, free books, health checks and more will also be available for free. Food, live music entertainment, a 3x3 basketball tournament and Mexican Lucha Libre Wrestling will keep the whole family entertained throughout the duration of the event.
Salvation Army Annual Thanksgiving Dinner
The Salvation Army is hosting a free Thanksgiving dinner at the Phoenix Convention Center that is open to everyone in the community. Doors open at 9:30 a.m. on Thursday, Nov. 23 and the meal will be served from 11:30 a.m. until 1:30 p.m. There will be no drive-thru option this year.
The organization is also looking for volunteers to help prepare and plate the meals. If interested, click here for more information.
The convention center is located at 100 North 3rd Street in the South Building (southeast corner of E. Washington St. and 3rd St.).
CenterWell tour and turkey giveaway
CenterWell Senior Primary Care is hosting a turkey giveaway on Tuesday, Nov. 21 from 10-11 a.m. at 2070 E Baseline Road. Visitors can tour the center and receive a turkey, while supplies last. Click here to sign up.
American Legion 20th annual Turkey Giveaway
HeroZona Foundation and Sons of the American Legion will host their 20th annual Thanksgiving Turkey Giveaway on Saturday, Nov. 18 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. at 1624 E. Broadway Road. Families in need will receive free turkeys. There will be a limit of one frozen turkey per family with no income requirements or ID necessary, while supplies last.
Looking for an opportunity to give back to families in need this holiday season?
Turkey Tuesday
For the last 31 years, 12news has partnered with St. Vincent de Paul and the Bashas’ family of stores to purchase meals for those in need for Thanksgiving and beyond.
Turkey Tuesday will take place on Nov. 21, 2023, but you can help give back all month long. Now, more than ever, no family should have to worry about where their holiday meal comes from.
Giving has never been easier:
Online
Click here to donate to 12 News' Turkey Tuesday.
At the register
You can provide support and kindness to our neighbors by donating at the register today at any AJ’s, Bashas’ or Food City.
VERSIÓN EN ESPAÑOL: Aquí es donde puede obtener una comida gratuita de Acción de Gracias en el valle