Thanksgiving is a wonderful time to celebrate being together with friends and family. However, the holiday season can also bring struggles. Putting together an entire turkey meal is expensive and laborious. Some don’t have the time to cook a meal. Many don’t have the finances to afford it.
We may find ourselves in a different place in life we didn’t expect. We may need help. Or maybe you find your heart wanting to help. If you need assistance or wanting to give back in some way, our Dallas community has a plethora of opportunities for helping hands.
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Seek Help
There is no shame in asking for assistance, especially during the holidays. No matter who you are, it’s an expensive time of year! For families who need a Thanksgiving meal, here are some local organizations to contact:
AXE Memorial United Church :: Garland :: The church will be serving Thanksgiving dinner on Saturday, November 25 from 1:00 – 4:00 p.m. Please contact its offices for registration information.
Life Message :: Rowlett :: Based in Rowlett, Life Message offers regular food assistance to those in need, Monday through Friday, with a valid ID. Thanksgiving day it will be offering food boxes and turkeys at its location.
MLK Basket Giveaway :: Dallas :: Families can register for one basket per family at this drive-thru event on Saturday, November 18.
Operation Turkey :: Dallas :: Families can register on the website to receive a free Thanksgiving meal. Its goal this year is to provide 65,000 meals.
Norma’s Cafe :: Oak Cliff :: For nearly 30 years, Norma’s has opened its doors on Thanksgiving day for those less fortunate. Guests are welcome to line up as early as they like. Doors open at 11:00 a.m. Serving goes until 1:00 p.m. Dinner will include roasted turkey, dressing, mashed potatoes, and green beans. The meal is served with a drink of choice and a slice of pumpkin pie.
Rockwall Helping Hands :: Rockwall :: Anyone in need of a Thanksgiving meal can register on its site starting October 23.
Thanksgiving Dinner :: Grand Prairie :: This event is specifically for Grand Prairie residents. It requires registration. The meal is served Thursday, November 16 from 6:00 – 8:00 p.m.
The Statler :: Dallas :: On Thanksgiving Day from 11:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m., The Statler is serving Thanksgiving dinner to first responders and medical professionals. Registration in advance is required. Complimentary valet is included.
Offer Help
Want to offer a helping hand this Thanksgiving season? All of the community organizations listed above have volunteer needs and options. In addition, Dallas Life is seeking volunteers to help with frying turkeys and assembling Thanksgiving baskets. The event is Tuesday, November 21, from 8:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m., in its parking lot.
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