Boston Distributes 3,200 Turkeys Ahead of Thanksgiving, Resources Available

UPDATE: Boston has just announced the distribution of over 3,200 turkeys and 35,000 pounds of food to support residents in need ahead of Thanksgiving. Mayor Michelle Wu confirmed this initiative during a press conference at Nuevo Dia adult day health center in Jamaica Plain on Monday morning.

The city’s Community Engagement Cabinet and the Office of Cultural Affairs spearheaded a three-day distribution effort, providing vital support to families facing challenges during the holiday season. “We’re so thankful to partner every single day to try to do whatever we can to take care of our community members,” Mayor Wu stated. “Especially around the holidays when times can be quite difficult.”

This year marks the third iteration of this community-driven program, which has expanded to include over 60 distribution sites such as community organizations, churches, and Boston Housing Authority facilities. The program is a collaborative effort with local partners including Stop and Shop, Amazon, Roche Bros., Shaw’s, and Goya Foods, among others.

Jennifer Epstein, controlling owner of the Boston Legacy Football Club, emphasized the importance of providing warm meals to families. “Our presence in the community isn’t seasonal. It reflects our long-term commitment to the neighborhoods around Franklin Park,” she said. This commitment is underscored by the city’s ongoing efforts to ensure every family has access to nutritious food during the holidays.

Residents seeking additional assistance can access resources through Boston’s 311 service or call 617-635-4500. A multilingual Thanksgiving resource page is also available at vitalcxns.org/food, detailing free events and food distribution across Boston neighborhoods leading up to the holiday.

City officials have made available a comprehensive list of accessible sources for free and discounted food via the Office of Food Justice’s Food Resource page at boston.gov/food-resources. This includes programs like after-school meals by Boston Centers for Youth & Families and the Double Up Food Bucks Program through local stores.

In addition, Project Bread offers a Food Source Hotline via call or text at 1-800-645-8333, and the Greater Boston Food Bank provides a food pantry finder at gbfb.org/need-food for those needing immediate assistance.

As Thanksgiving approaches, Boston’s commitment to its residents remains stronger than ever, providing essential support to ensure every family can celebrate with a warm meal on the table.

Stay tuned for more updates on this initiative and other community resources as the holiday season unfolds.