Holiday Food Assistance Programs

Special food assistance programs during Thanksgiving, Christmas, and other holidays.

Thanksgiving Food Programs

Many organizations provide special Thanksgiving food assistance including complete turkey dinners with all the trimmings.

What's Typically Offered

  • Frozen turkey or ham
  • Stuffing mix and canned vegetables
  • Cranberry sauce
  • Instant mashed potatoes or sweet potatoes
  • Pie or dessert ingredients
  • Dinner rolls

Where to Get Thanksgiving Food

  • Food Banks: Most distribute special Thanksgiving boxes in November
  • Churches: Many have turkey giveaways and holiday baskets
  • Salvation Army: Traditional Thanksgiving food assistance
  • Community Organizations: Local charities often sponsor families for the holiday
Register Early: Sign up for Thanksgiving assistance in October or early November. Many programs have limited quantities and fill up quickly.

Christmas Food Programs

Christmas assistance often includes food boxes plus toys for children and sometimes gifts for adults.

Christmas Food Baskets

Typical contents:

  • Ham or turkey
  • Christmas meal ingredients
  • Holiday treats and cookies
  • Cocoa, coffee, tea
  • Special holiday items

Adopt-a-Family Programs

Local businesses, churches, and organizations "adopt" families to provide:

  • Complete Christmas dinner
  • Toys for children
  • Sometimes clothing and household items
  • Gift cards for groceries

Application Timeline

Most Christmas programs require registration between October and mid-November. Some have specific income requirements. Apply early as spaces are limited.

Other Holiday Assistance

Easter

  • Easter baskets for children
  • Ham and Easter dinner items
  • Special food pantry distributions

Back-to-School

  • School supply giveaways
  • Extra food boxes to help with school year expenses
  • Backpack programs with weekend food

How to Access Holiday Programs

  1. Call 211: Get information on all holiday programs in your area
  2. Contact Your Food Bank: Ask about holiday distributions and registration dates
  3. Check with Churches: Even if you're not a member, many churches help community members
  4. Social Services: DHHS offices often have lists of holiday assistance programs
  5. Schools: School social workers and counselors know about family assistance programs
  6. United Way: Local United Way chapters coordinate holiday assistance

National Holiday Programs

Salvation Army Angel Tree

Provides Christmas gifts for children. Register at local Salvation Army locations, usually in November.

Toys for Tots

U.S. Marine Corps program providing toys for children. Register at participating locations October-December.

Operation Christmas Child

Shoeboxes filled with gifts, toys, and school supplies for children.

Tips for Getting Holiday Help

  • Register Early: Most programs have deadlines in October or November
  • Bring Documentation: Proof of income, children's ages, address
  • Don't Double-Dip: Only register with one program per holiday to ensure more families can be served
  • Be Flexible: You may not get to choose specific items but will receive a complete holiday meal
  • Pick Up On Time: Arrive during designated pickup times or items may be given to waiting families

Year-Round Food Assistance

Need help beyond the holidays? Find food banks near you.

Find Food Banks