Thanksgiving is just days away, but the holiday season is more difficult for some New Yorkers than others — and various Brooklyn elected officials and community organizations are teaming up to make sure no one goes hungry this season. Here are a list of community giveaways and free holiday dinners this week.
Tuesday, Nov. 21
Pre-Thanksgiving Giveaway: The Doe Fund, a nonprofit that connects marginalized communities with housing and employment opportunities, is providing residents of the Crystal Tower Residence in East Flatbush apartment with winter supplies, hygiene kits and other essential needs. The team will also donate eyewear and offer a guided meditation seminar for all tenants of Crystal Towers at 1345 Rogers Ave.
Good Shepherd Services Turkey Giveaway: Pick up a free turkey at a giveaway hosted by Good Shepherd Services, a city based nonprofit, at 2:30 p.m. at I.S. 347 Magnet School for Humanities at 35 Starr St. The group partnered with AT&T, Brooklyn Borough President Antonio Reynoso, state Sen. Julia Salazar’s office, Council Member Jennifer Gutiérrez and Assembly Member Maritza Davila to give out 400 turkeys and 190 chickens to Brooklyn families. The event will run until supplies run out.
Community Giving Holiday Dinner: Two Flatbush organizations are hosting a free holiday dinner from 5:30-7:30 at 905 Winthrop St.! Register for a seat at the table and enjoy a festive meal with some fellow Brooklynites. The hosts, Buddy’s Bodega and Raiman Sport and Fitness Program, will also be giving away free turkeys while supplies last.
Wednesday, Nov . 22
Coney Island Lunch: Join the Alliance for Coney Island, Luna Park, Gargiulo’s Restaurant and the Coney Island Alliance for a community dinner from 2-6 p.m. at Gargiulo’s, 2911 W. 15th St. in Coney Island. All are welcome to dine for free with their neighbors. No RSVP is required.
Thursday, Nov. 23
Thanksgiving Banquet: The Next Step Community Church in Downtown Brooklyn is opening their doors for a free Thanksgiving banquet meal from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. at 360 Schermerhorn St. Volunteers will be ready to serve a hot meal to any person in need. Organizers encourage those who want to attend to RSVP by texting (929) 229-1076 — however registration is not required to attend.
Kings Theatre Community Luncheon: The Kings Theatre, along with several local partners, is hosting its annual community lunch from 12-2 p.m. outside the theater at 1027 Flatbush Ave. Head out for spread of hot, traditional Thanksgiving dishes prepared by students from the Academy of Hospitality and Tourism at Erasmus High School. The meal is free to any New Yorker in need.
Volunteers will also be giving away winter coats, hats, scarves, gloves, socks and blankets for adults and children as supplies last.
Neighbors Giving Thanks: Helped by a team of volunteers, the North Brooklyn Angels will be serving up more than 500 hot Thanksgiving meals across four locations in Greenpoint, Williamsburg, East Williamsburg, and Bushwick. Sit down and help yourself to a fresh and delicious holiday dinner! Visit their website or contact thanksgiving@northbrooklynangels.org for more information.
