Every November, as communities across the country prepare to gather around tables filled with turkey, stuffing, and dessert, too many families in the Houston area face a heartbreaking truth: they don’t know how they will put a full meal on the table—let alone a celebratory one.
In the 18-county region served by the Houston Food Bank, more than one million people are food insecure, meaning they have uncertain or inadequate access to food during the year. Houston Food Bank+1
In Harris County — home to Houston — recent data show an 18.2% food insecurity rate, translating to roughly 863,820 individuals who are unsure where their next meal is coming from. Community Impact
For children in the county, the rate is even more alarming: about 24.6% of children face food insecurity. Community Impact+1
A focused study by the Kinder Institute for Urban Research at Rice University found that an estimated 39% of households in Houston/Harris County reported food insecurity — nearly three times the U.S. average of ~14%. Kinder Institute+1
These numbers aren’t just statistics—they represent our neighbors: families with children, seniors on fixed incomes, working households trying to make ends meet.
Thanksgiving often highlights what many families lack:
A hearty meal with loved ones.
The peace of knowing food worries are on hold for a moment.
The simple dignity that comes with sharing and celebrating.
When a family can’t afford even a basic Thanksgiving meal, it’s not just a missing turkey or sides—it’s the message that says: You’re not safe. You’re not seen.
Households earning less than $35,000 annually report food insecurity at very high rates—59% in the Houston/Harris study. Kinder Institute
Black and Hispanic households also face disproportionately higher rates: in the study, 53% of Black households and 47% of Hispanic households experienced food insecurity. Rice News+1
Neighbourhoods with concentrated poverty and fewer resources — such as northern Houston and areas around IAH/Greenspoint — show up to 4 in 5 households reporting food insecurity. Kinder Institute
We’re committed to one thing: 100% of the money donated goes directly to food for Houston families. No administrative overhead taken from your generosity—every dollar is used to provide meals.
Here’s how your contribution helps:
Funds can purchase turkeys, side dishes, produce and all the fixings of a Thanksgiving meal.
Bulk purchasing helps stretch every dollar further, making more meals possible.
Donations make it possible to reach families who might not approach traditional food pantries, ensuring no one is overlooked.
This year, we’re asking you to step up and join us in ensuring that no one in Houston goes without a Thanksgiving meal. Donate today, and be confident your gift will be turned into the table, the meal, the gratitude for a family in need.
How to donate:
CLICK HERE, give what you can (every amount helps), and know you are bringing hope to someone’s holiday.
Volunteer:
If you’d like to go further, consider volunteering your time. Helping with meal packaging, distribution, or outreach amplifies our reach and impact.
As we approach this season of gratitude and gathering, let us remember that for many, it’s a season of worry and uncertainty instead. Your support means the difference between “Will we have enough?” and “We have more than enough.”
Together, we can turn those vulnerable moments into full tables, visible hope, and a community that cares. Please join us in making Thanksgiving meaningful for families throughout Houston. Your gift = a turkey, hope restored, dignity respected.
Thank you for your compassion. Let’s give thanks in action.