Share your Thankfulness with Others
As we begin preparations for the Thanksgiving holiday meal with friends and family, I hope you will also keep in mind those who are facing tough times this season – not only for the holiday but also their daily food needs.
Local food pantries expect to see dramatic increase in volume from individuals and families impacted by the disruption of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits during the extended government shutdown.
This is over and above the already escalating needs our food pantries have reported as prices have increased, and more people move into Denton County.
According to the Tarrant Area Food Bank, more than 46,000 people in Denton County will be directly impacted by the SNAP-pause which goes into effect November 1, 2025.
Food pantries across Denton County request monetary donations to assist in purchasing staples as well as protein for families going into the holiday season. Pantries can purchase additional items for much cheaper prices, which allows each donated amount to stretch further.
That is why the United Way of Denton County launched the Denton County Food Insecurity Relief Fund to mobilize an emergency response to the food insecurity crisis impacting the county.
As Gary Henderson, United Way of Denton County President and CEO said, our collective role is to mobilize the giving spirit among all our residents to address immediate needs in our communities.
No family should have to choose between healthy meals and monthly bills. Prior to the government shutdown, Feeding America reported that Denton County had a Food Insecurity Rate of 13.6%, which is over 146,000 people.
Corporate and individual donations will be distributed to food insecurity 501(c)3 organizations serving Denton County.The Denton County Food Insecurity Relief Fund will remain active until the federal government reopens, and SNAP benefits resume for eligible residents.
To donate funds to help families with food needs, please visit UnitedWayDenton.org/DentonCountyFoodReliefFund
We should also consider donating to our local food pantries for the Christmas season and in 2026. Several local grocery stores are providing opportunities to buy complete Thanksgiving meals, including:
Aldi – Grocery retailer Aldi is offering a $40 Thanksgiving meal for 10 that includes a 14-pound turkey and nine side dishes.
Kroger – This season, Kroger is once again offering customers an affordable meal with zero-compromise on value, convenience or quality for under $4.85 per person.
Walmart – Walmart recently announced the return of its beloved annual Thanksgiving meal, with its best offer yet. This incredible basket offers over 20 national and private brand items — including a Butterball turkey for $.97 per pound, its lowest price since 2019 — as a one-click basket serving 10 people for less than $40. It’s also offering free express delivery on the meal basket for first-time Pickup and Delivery customers.
Consider inviting a neighbor in need to your Thanksgiving meal, buy a few extra items on your shopping list to donate to local food pantries, or check your favorite food pantry for items needed.
Whatever you choose to do, helping a family in need enjoy a holiday meal is the best way to give thanks to those who might need it the most and to show what it means to truly be thankful for the abundance many of us are fortunate enough to enjoy.
If you have any questions or comments, please let me hear from you. Be sure and connect with me and with Denton County on Facebook.
bobbie.mitchell@dentoncounty.com | 972.434.4780
