Thanksgiving is a time for giving back, and many nonprofits rely on the generosity of Houstonians to make that happen.
Stephanie Lewis, regional director for the City Wide Club, said the group’s annual Super Feast has become a family tradition for volunteering for many families.
“We have children who have volunteered since they were little and now they have become adults, and they’re training their children to also give back to the community, learn how to be grateful for the things that they have,” Lewis said.
Here are a few local organizations that are looking for volunteers and donations. Not only can you give your time, you can also donate much-needed food and supplies.
Where to volunteer to help provide donations, meals or messages to seniors:
- City Wide Club of America – Super Feast
- Destined for Empowerment – Thanksgiving Dinner Drive
- Operation Turkey Houston – South Houston, Pasadena, Katy, West Houston
- 2023 Meals on Wheels Volunteer Call Teams
Here are some items most people don’t realize organizations need:
- Toilet paper
- Paper plates
- Cleaning products
- Paper towels
- Shaving cream
- Plus-size clothing
- Hair brushes
- Deodorant for men and women
- Menstrual products
- Items that have no salt/sugar added
- Turkeys
- Cereal
- Cold milk
- Hams
- Butter
- Stuffing mix
- Cake mixes
- Eggs
- Flour
- Canned sweet potatoes
- Financial donations (Sometimes food pantries have collective purchasing power that allows them to buy items cheaper than grocery stores)
Keep in mind that not all organizations or food pantries will accept these items. Be sure to call your local organization or food pantry before you drop them off.
If your organization needs volunteers for Thanksgiving and you are interested in being included, please email me at angelica@houstonlanding.org.
Hi! My name is Angelica Perez, and I am one of Houston Landing’s Civic Engagement reporters. I write explainers and guides on all types of things from how the city maintains roadway stripes to how to navigate the naturalization process. ¡También hablo español! ¿Qué notas te gustaría leer? What questions do you have about Houston? Email me your ideas at angelica@houstonlanding.org.