Thanksgiving is a wonderful holiday to celebrate with loved ones. One of the chief problems of homelessness is not just the lack of physical resources like food and shelter, but the loss of family relationships that everyone needs — losses that are felt most keenly on holidays.
When we’re isolated from the people God designed us to be closest to — like spouses or parents — the scars from that brokenness can make trusting anyone difficult. Individuals who’ve reached the end of their rope, who turn to The Bowery Mission as a refuge of last resort, often struggle with trust as a result. They feel completely alone.
That’s why we work so hard to welcome them and to meet their needs with love and compassion. While we can’t replace their family, we can be a place of warmth where they truly belong. Each one of them matters, because each one is made in the image of God. Our guests are worthy of dignity, and when they turn to us for help on Thanksgiving or any other day, they’re leaving behind the loneliness and isolation of the streets and entering a community of love and support.
I’m grateful that friends like you make this possible. May God bless you and yours with a joyful Thanksgiving.
With deep appreciation,
James Winans, CEO
“Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” — 1 Thessalonians 5:15-18
Be a part of Thanksgiving history at The Bowery Mission!
Supporting The Bowery Mission at Thanksgiving keeps alive a New York tradition that’s almost 150 years old! The Mission started serving Thanksgiving meals in 1879. And every year since then we’ve extended a heartfelt invitation to anyone without a home to join us around our family table on Thanksgiving Day.
Imagine this list of ingredients: 260 turkeys, 3,200 pounds of potatoes and 300 pounds of coffee. Plus stuffing, gravy, sweet potatoes and pumpkin pie. It’s a Thanksgiving celebration!
What we do at Thanksgiving is simply a supersized version of what we do every single day. We are thankful for the opportunity to serve neighbors. They know there’s a place of love and belonging and acceptance.
“The Mission is miraculous. I have no idea what I would have done if it wasn’t here. Everybody here is smiling, nobody looks down on us. You’re dealing with people who are going out of their way to give you the best experience. I really appreciate that.” — Maurice, Bowery Mission Guest
Gearing up for Thanksgiving 2025
Join The Bowery Mission for our cherished, time-honored tradition: the longest-running Thanksgiving meal celebration in New York City! We’re still weeks away, but already working hard to be ready for each person who comes to our Red Doors in need. Learn more about Thanksgiving at the Mission.
Helping neighbors in need find help and hope
Before everything fell apart, life was going well for Kit. After a series of crises, she found herself living in her car. But God led her to The Bowery Mission. Her sister had volunteered here and knew she would be in good hands. Kit found refuge and a path forward through nourishing meals, safe shelter, vocational services and caring community. See how her life has been transformed thanks to friends like you!
Looking for ways to give back this Thanksgiving?
Donate
Every day, The Bowery Mission serves over 1,000 meals to neighbors in need, and any one of these meals can lead to a new life. Your generous compassion will keep our Red Doors open to provide meals and other critical care.
Volunteer
Our Thanksgiving Day volunteer opportunities are extremely limited and not open to the general public. But we need help beforehand and throughout the year — join us! You can also find a list of our most urgent needs. Learn more and register.
Start a fundraiser
Employers, teams and community groups can join together and multiply their impact in support of The Bowery Mission and the people we serve. Get ideas and next steps for corporate fundraising initiatives.