As we gather with loved ones this holiday season, it’s also a time to reflect on how we can show gratitude by giving back. In District 3, several organizations and programs offer ways to help neighbors in need, whether through volunteering your time or supporting meal services that bring warmth and dignity to families across the South Side.
Thanksgiving Meal Programs
- Raul Jimenez Thanksgiving Dinner
While hosted downtown, this iconic event serves thousands of meals to families from all over San Antonio, including many from District 3. You can sign up to volunteer or donate to support the effort. Learn more: https://www.rauljimenezdinner.com/ - City Council District 3 & Community Partners
Keep an eye out for holiday food distributions and turkey giveaways sponsored by your council office in partnership with local churches and nonprofits. These often happen the week before Thanksgiving and may require pre-registration. - Food Bank Holiday Meals
The San Antonio Food Bank partners with churches and schools throughout District 3 to offer Thanksgiving meal kits.
Call (210) 337-3663 or visit safoodbank.org to find upcoming distributions or request assistance.
Ways to Volunteer
Whether you have a few hours or a whole day to give, there are many meaningful ways to get involved this Thanksgiving season:
1. Serve Meals or Prep Food
- St. Margaret Mary Catholic Church often hosts Thanksgiving meal events for the community and may need help with setup, food service, or clean-up.
- The Neighborhood Place (Family Service Association) occasionally holds seasonal events and distributes meals or food kits. Reach out to see how you can lend a hand.
- Haven for Hope and Christian Assistance Ministry (CAM) also welcome volunteers from all over San Antonio to help serve meals to people experiencing homelessness.
Call or check the organization’s website for dates and shifts.
2. Deliver Thanksgiving Meals to Seniors
- Meals on Wheels San Antonio offers a special Thanksgiving delivery route. You can bring holiday meals and a friendly face to isolated seniors in District 3.
- No long-term commitment needed; volunteers can sign up for single-day service. https://www.mowsatx.org/volunteer
- Move with a Mission
If staying active is your thing, lace up for the annual Turkey Trot, hosted in partnership with the San Antonio Food Bank. Every registration helps put a turkey on the table for a local family facing food insecurity this holiday season. Whether you walk, jog, or race, your steps go farther than the finish line. Not a runner? No problem, volunteers are just as vital. From helping with setup to handing out water and cheering on participants, there are plenty of ways to support the event. Learn more or sign up at safoodbank.org/turkeytrot.
- A Tradition of Giving
Every Thanksgiving, the Raul Jimenez Thanksgiving Dinner brings thousands of San Antonians together for a warm, festive meal at the Henry B. González Convention Center, completely free of charge. Founded in 1979, this cherished tradition now serves over 25,000 meals annually and offers opportunities for residents to give back through volunteering, donating, or sponsoring meals for those in need. Learn more or sign up to help at rauljimenezdinner.com.
Not Just a Meal: Why It Matters
For many in our community, the holidays can be a time of financial stress or deep loneliness. Volunteering or supporting a meal program isn’t just about food; it’s about showing up for one another. A warm plate and a kind word can go a long way in reminding someone they’re not alone.
Let’s Make Thanksgiving Meaningful for All
District 3 has always been defined by its generosity and tight-knit neighborhoods. This Thanksgiving, let’s continue that tradition by giving what we can, whether it’s time, donations, or simply spreading the word about local programs.
Know of another Thanksgiving event or need in the area? Share it with us, we’ll help spread the word.