Where To Get a Free Thanksgiving Meal in 2025

A variety of charitable initiatives and programs are available across the U.S. to help those in need enjoy a free Thanksgiving meal in 2025.

Why it Matters

For millions of Americans, Thanksgiving is a cherished tradition, usually centered around a meal—but rising food costs and ongoing economic struggles might mean some might struggle to put a Thanksgiving feast on their table this year. However, various community groups, churches, and charities across the United States are providing free Thanksgiving meals to those who need them.  

What To Know

There are many ways for people to enjoy a free Thanksgiving meal this year, thanks to a wide network of community and charitable efforts. For instance: 

Operation Turkey will deliver traditional Thanksgiving meals—including turkey, stuffing, and vegetables—directly to homes in participating cities on Thursday, November 27, 2025, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. 

Areas offering this initiative are: 

• Austin, Bastrop, Cedar Park, Dallas, Elgin, Fort Worth, Houston, Houston—South Central Area, Killeen, Round Rock, San Antonio, and San Marcos in Texas
• Fayetteville, Greensboro, and Raleigh in North Carolina 
• Philadelphia, Chester County, and Delaware County in Pennsylvania
• Marlton, Cherry Hill, and Cinnaminson in New Jersey 

The deadline to request a meal via the online system was on Friday, November 21. However, people may still be able to order one if meals are still available in their area.  

The Salvation Army traditionally offers free Salvation Army Thanksgiving dinners to individuals and families in need. Details such as serving times, format (sit-down or to-go), and any RSVP requirements will vary by location, so it’s best to check local Salvation Army websites or social media.

Many local food banks are offering free Thanksgiving dinners, turkey giveaways, and prepared meal baskets. Some soup kitchens and mobile pantries are also providing sit-down meals or drive-thru services—often requiring pre-registration. Those who want to see what’s available in their local area are advised to call United Way’s 211 service or visit their local food bank website.

Some supermarkets are running promotions that provide free turkeys as part of grocery store loyalty programs. Chains such as Stop & Shop, Kroger, Safeway, Meijer, and Food Lion are typically offering a free frozen turkey when customers meet a minimum spending threshold—usually between $125 and $300—during November. Exact requirements vary by store and region, so shoppers should check their local ad or app for details.

Some churches and community centers are also hosting free Thanksgiving dinners. For example, Center City Church in Altoona, Pennsylvania, served more than 1,000 community members at its 2025 Thanksgiving event, which was held on Tuesday, 25 November.   

Free Thanksgiving Meals for Veterans and Military Families

There are also special initiatives that honor veterans and active-duty military families by offering complimentary meals and grocery kits. Some of these include:

Veterans Service Organizations: Veterans Service Organizations, such as local VFW and American Legion posts, often host free Thanksgiving meals for veterans and their families, and in some cases, the general public. Membership or advanced RSVP requirements might apply, and specific details will likely vary by location, so those who are interested in this offering should check with their local post. 

Operation Homefront: The Holiday Meals for Military® program, run by the Operation Homefront charity, distributes free holiday meal kits to military and veteran families in need. Supplies are limited, and pre-registration is typically required.

Military Bases: Active duty and retired members can get Thanksgiving meals on base, often at discounted rates.  

What People Are Saying

Operation Turkey says that its aim is to bring “communities together, across the nation, to feed and clothe the homeless and less fortunate on Thanksgiving Day.” 

Senior Pastor Mark Mielnik Jr., Center City Church, said: “In a world that can be divided, a free meal is where people can come and say what we’re thankful for.”  

Operation Homefront said: “Holiday Meals for Military is Operation Homefront’s way of saying thank you for the service and sacrifice that you have made for our country! Since the program began in 2010, and with the generous support of our partners, the Holiday Meals for Military program has served over 825,000 individual family members.” 

What Happens Next

Those seeking a free Thanksgiving meal should contact their local organizations and charities as early as possible, and monitor local news and community bulletins for announcements.