These hunger-focused nonprofits are seeking help at Thanksgiving

These hunger-focused nonprofits are seeking help at ThanksgivingPhoto: San Diego Food Bank/Facebook
Hoodline
Published on November 26, 2019

As the holiday season begins, many choose to ramp up their giving and their volunteer work. The numbers show that nearly a third of annual giving happens in December alone.

If you’re looking to make an impact close to home this holiday season, many San Diego nonprofit organizations are welcoming volunteers and contributions through year’s end. Here are three of them, which we’re highlighting because of their focus on distributing food and feeding the unhoused as Thanksgiving approaches.

San Diego Food Bank

9850 Distribution Ave., San Diego

The San Diego Food Bank, the largest hunger relief organization in San Diego County, serves an average of 350,000 people experiencing food insecurity each month.

Numerous volunteer opportunities are available, from participating in the Run for the Hungry this Thanksgiving morning to contributing to the Holiday Food Drive through Dec. 25. Volunteers are also needed at the food bank's warehouse, at food distribution sites and during events. See this page for more information. Online monetary donations can also be made.

San Diego Rescue Mission

P.O. Box 80427, San Diego

The faith-based San Diego Rescue Mission, which has been serving the community since 1955, operates an emergency shelter for women and children, a residential rehabilitation program for men and job training programs, among other services.

The mission served its annual Thanksgiving Outreach Meal on Saturday, but there are many other ways to give. The nonprofit seeks donations of time, gently used clothing and household goods and financial gifts. You can check out its Christmas gift catalog here. 

Father Joe's Villages

3350 E St., San Diego

Father Joe's Villages has worked to prevent and end homelessness since it was established in 1950. The charitable organization has helped more than 11,000 people achieve permanent housing in the last decade alone, and staff and volunteers serve more than 1 million meals each year.

Want to help? Join the 18th Annual Thanksgiving Day 5K in Balboa Park, then stay for the post-race festival and purchase a holiday pie prepared by students in the nonprofit's culinary arts program. Donations of money, clothing and vehicles are also being sought. Visit this page for more information. 


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