The holidays are a special time in San Antonio. Families and neighbors come together, and many of us look forward to the traditions we’ve celebrated for years. But for families already struggling to make ends meet, the added expenses of the holiday season can bring a lot of stress.
Whether it’s putting a Thanksgiving meal on the table, buying groceries, or keeping up with everyday bills, this time of year isn’t easy for everyone. Fortunately, San Antonio is home to many organizations that work year-round to help families through difficult times.
As we head into the holiday season, we wanted to share a few resources for those who may need assistance, along with some ways to give back if you’re in a position to help.
Finding Help During the Holidays
Food assistance programs, community organizations, and local nonprofits serve thousands of San Antonio families throughout the year, and many offer additional support during the holiday season. If you or someone you know could use assistance, here are a few places to start.
San Antonio Food Bank
The San Antonio Food Bank helps individuals and families who are having trouble affording groceries. Through its network of community partners and food distributions, residents can find food assistance close to home. The organization also helps people apply for benefits such as SNAP.
If you need groceries, visit the San Antonio Food Bank’s Get Help page to find a food distribution near you. It’s a good idea to check the distribution details before heading out, since locations and schedules may change.
Meals on Wheels San Antonio
For older adults who have difficulty leaving home or preparing meals, Meals on Wheels San Antonio may be able to help. The organization delivers nutritious meals to eligible seniors and homebound residents, while also providing a friendly visit and an opportunity to check on their well-being.
If you have an aging parent, neighbor, or family member who could benefit from this service, you can learn more about eligibility and request assistance through Meals on Wheels San Antonio or call 210-735-5115.
Catholic Charities
Catholic Charities’ St. Stephen’s CARE Center provides food assistance to individuals and families in need. Its food pantry offers groceries, including fresh produce and other essentials, and the organization also provides access to additional assistance programs. Visit Catholic Charities or call 210-226-6178 to learn more about available services.
Not Sure Where to Start? Call 211
If you’re looking for help with food, housing, utility bills, or other basic needs, 211 Texas can connect you with organizations and programs in your area. You can dial 211 or visit 211Texas.org to search for resources by ZIP code. This can be especially helpful if you’re not sure which organization offers the kind of assistance you need.
Ways to Give Back This Holiday Season
If you’re fortunate enough to have a little extra this year, there are plenty of ways to help someone else enjoy the holidays. You don’t have to make a large donation or commit to volunteering every week to make a difference.
The San Antonio Food Bank welcomes volunteers to help sort and pack food, prepare meals, and assist with distributions. You can also organize a food drive with your workplace, church, neighborhood association, or family. Visit the Food Bank’s volunteer page to see available opportunities.
Meals on Wheels San Antonio also relies on volunteers to deliver meals to older adults and homebound neighbors. For some seniors, that visit may be one of the few opportunities they have to talk with someone during the day. You can learn more about volunteering with Meals on Wheels.
And remember, helping doesn’t always have to involve an organization. Checking in on an older neighbor, offering to pick up groceries for someone who can’t drive or inviting someone who lives alone to share a holiday meal are all thoughtful ways to show you care.
Help for Families with Pets
Pets are part of the family, too, and keeping them fed can be another challenge when money is tight. Through its partnership with the San Antonio Food Bank, DaisyCares helps families experiencing financial hardship access free dog and cat food so they can keep their pets healthy and at home.
If you need assistance, call the San Antonio Food Bank at 210-431-8326 to ask about pet food availability and distribution locations. Those who want to help can also donate pet food, supplies or funds through DaisyCares.
Looking Out for Our District 3 Neighbors
One of the things that makes the South Side special is the way families and neighbors look out for one another. We see it in the people who volunteer their time, the organizations that serve our community, and the residents who step up when someone needs help.
As we celebrate Thanksgiving and look ahead to the rest of the holiday season, I hope we’ll continue that tradition. If you need assistance, please know there are organizations ready to help. And if you’re able to give back, consider supporting one of the many groups working to make the holidays a little easier for local families.
From our District 3 office, we wish you and your family a happy Thanksgiving and a wonderful holiday season.