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As the holiday season approaches, Chicago communities are coming together to ensure that no family goes without a warm meal or essential items this Thanksgiving. From turkey giveaways to free Thanksgiving feasts, organizations, community leaders, and businesses across the city are hosting events to spread cheer and provide much-needed support to families facing food insecurity and financial strain.
These events, happening just in time for Thanksgiving, offer more than food—they foster a sense of connection and goodwill in neighborhoods where holiday joy might otherwise be hard to come by. In addition to food distribution, some events will include coat giveaways and household essentials, relieving families of rising costs and other challenges.
Here’s a guide to the Thanksgiving meal events happening in and around Chicago:
Thursday, November 28
Levy’s Salvation Army Thanksgiving Meal
- What: 4,000 Thanksgiving meals prepared and distributed.
- When: 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.
- Where: Salvation Army Freedom Center, 825 N. Christiana Ave., Chicago.
Rainbow PUSH Coalition Thanksgiving Meal
- Time: 11 a.m.
- Location: 930 E. 50th Street, Chicago
- Details: Serving meals to unhoused individuals, working poor families, children, and veterans.
Various Dates in November and December
Nourishing Hope Holiday Meats Distribution
- What: Distribution of turkeys, hams, and other proteins.
- Where: Sheridan Market, 3945 N. Sheridan Rd., Chicago.
- Details: Registration required for monthly distribution program.
These events reflect the generosity and community spirit of Chicago, ensuring no family is left behind this Thanksgiving season.
