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We make podcasts and newsletters that connect people with the cities they love.

City Cast Houston

Make Houston better, one neighbor at a time.

Thanksgiving is right around the corner, but many families don’t have the means for a meal on that special day. So how can you help them?

This volunteer-run organization works to make sure everyone has a meal on Thanksgiving. And you can 

volunteer at two different events happening next week.

 At Houston Turkey Tailgate, volunteers smoke hundreds of turkeys, and also accept care package donations. On Thanksgiving Day, help prepare, package, and deliver meals to people experiencing homelessness and less fortunate. 

The Houston Food Bank provides food to families in financial need year-round and during the holidays. 

. A $10 donation provides 30 meals. The food bank also puts red barrels in Kroger and H-E-B stores across the city 

If you want to volunteer from the comfort of your home, 

think about hosting a virtual Thanksgiving food drive.

 The food drive helps raise funds for Feeding America, a nationwide network of food banks. You can also 

 and donate to a food drive. Feeding America suggests these Thanksgiving food items: boxed stuffing, instant mashed potatoes, canned vegetables, dry macaroni, cranberry sauce, and canned pumpkin.

Interfaith Ministries’ Meals on Wheels provides turkey dinners to homebound seniors during Thanksgiving week. 

 to make sure they reach their goal. Also, sign up to 

call seniors on Thanksgiving morning and wish them a Happy Thanksgiving. 

Help Your Neighbor Prepare Thanksgiving Dinner

Help Your Neighbors

Earlier this year, the Coalition for the Homeless of Houston and Harris County counted 

roughly 3,223 homeless people in Harris, Fort Bend and Montgomery counties.

 This unhoused population has decreased by 19% since 2020, but there are still thousands who need our help. Here are ways you can help those living on the streets: 


 helps move people to permanent housing. In January, you can assist with the Annual Homeless Account & Survey, which counts how many people are homeless within the city. And check this list for 

other volunteer opportunities with their partner organizations. 

The Beacon provides legal aid, counseling and other housing case management services. Wash clothes, fold laundry, help with client intake and serve meals

 Monday through Thursday at the Day Center

 from 7 a.m. to 10 a.m. or 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Attorneys can help at legal advice clinics or represent a client pro bono. They also need women to serve as mentors.

A shelter for homeless young people in Houston isn’t accepting applications for new volunteers. Instead, 

their fundraising program for young professionals.

Star of Hope has served Houston since 1907. If you’re looking to volunteer, you can sign up 

or an individual can also sponsor a donation drive

. They’re looking for baby wipes, deodorant, new twin size blankets, overnight maxi pads, large conditioner, large lotion, new underwear for men, women’s body wash, hairbrushes, jackets, coats, board games, puzzles, bath towels and baby wash. Donations can also be dropped off at 2320 Lamar or 2575 Reed Road throughout the week from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. or on Saturday from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m

Help Your Neighbors

Help Your Neighbor Prepare Thanksgiving Dinner

Help the Homeless